
Class _ 

Cojjyright}!" 



COPYRIGHT DEPOSrr. 



THE LIFE OF 

KIT CARSON 



HUNTER, TRAPPER, GUIDE, INDIAN AGENT, 
AND COLONEL U. S. A. 



BY 

EDWARD S. ELLIS 

AUTHOR OF "BOY PIONEER SERIES," "LOG CABIN SERIES,' 

" DEERFOOT SERIES,-" " WYOMING VALLEY 

SERIES," ETC., ETC. 



m 



NEW YORK 

NEW YORK PUBLISHING COMPANY 

26 City Hall Place 






Two Coo>es Rw^pive'i 

JUL 5 1904 

Copyrlifht Enrrv 
COPY B ' 



Copyright, iSgg, by 
THE AMERICAN NEWS COI.IPANY 



't. «•' 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER I. 

Kit Carson's Youth— His Visit to New Mexico— Acts as Interpreter and in 
Various Other Employments — Joins a Party of Trappers and Engages 
in a Fight with Indians — Visits the Sacramento Valley. . . 5 

CHAPTER 11. 

California— Sufiferings of the Hunters— The Mission of San Gabriel— The 
Hudson Bay Trappers — Characteristics of Carson — He Leads the Party 
Which Captures an Indian Village and Secures some Criminals. . 1 1 

CHAPTER HI. 

Tfe- Trapper's Life— Indian Horse Thieves— Carson's Skilful Pursuit and 
Surprise of the Savages — Arrival at Los Angeles — ^Trouble widi the 
Authorities — A Singular Eiscape 1 7 

CHAPTER IV. 

An Alarming Visit — Carson's Resources — On the Colorado and Gila 

Capturing a Herd of Horses and Mules— The Raiders— Turning the 
Tables— Caching their Peltries— Return to Santa F6— Carson Goes 
mpon a Second Trapping Expedition — Hunting with an Old Mountaineer 
— A Visit from Crow Indians 23 

CHAPTER V. 

Kit Carson's Decision — A Hot Pursuit and an Unexpected Discovery 

Weary Waiting— A Snow Balling Party— A Daring Attack— Brilliant 
Exploit 29 



ii. CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER VI. 

7 he British and American Trapper — Hunting on the Laramie — Th« 
Deserters — The Vain Pursuit — Arrival of Friends — The Return Jour- 
ney — The Night Alarm — The Attack Upon the Camp — Pursuit and Re- 
covery of Horses. -^ . . .35 

CHAPTER VH. 

An Unexpected Meeting — The Ambush — A Daring and Perilous Ride- 
Return to Camp — Disappointments — The Beaver. . .41 

CHAPTER VIII. 

Carson and Two Companions set out on a Trapping Expedition of Their 
Own — They Meet With Great Success — Is Engaged by Captain Lee — 
Carson's Pursuit of an Indian Thief. . . .48 

CHAPTER IX. 

A Hot Pursuit — An Unexpected Calamity — Carson Continues the Chase 
Alone— The Result. . . . . . .53 

CHAPTER X. 

Carson Returns with the Recovered Property — Journey to Snake River- 
Starts on a Trapping Expedition with Three Companions — Carson's 
Stirring Adventure with Two Grizzly Bears > . .59 

CHAPTER XI. 

On the Green River — In the Blackfoot Country — The Blackfeet — An Un- 
welcome Visit — The Pursuit and Parley — Dissolution of the Peace Con- 
gress. , . . . . .65 



CHAPTER XII. 

Carson Badly Wounded — A Drawn Battle — An Ineffectual Pursuit — The 
Summer Rendezvous — Carson's Duel. . . -71 



CONTENTS. 111. 

CHAPTER XIII. 

On the Yellowstone— Repealed Disappointments — Carson Enters the Em- 
ploy of a Hudson Bay Trader — Poor Success — A Trying Journey — 
Arrival at Fort Hall — The American Buffalo or Bison. '77 

CHAPTER XIV. 

A Strange Occurrence — Arrival of Friends — Carson Joins a Large Com- 
pany — Trapping on the Yellowstone — The Blackfeet — A Dreadful 
Scourge — In Winter Quarters — The Friendly Crow Indians — Loss of 
Two Trappers — On the Head Waters of the Missouri. . 83 

CHAPTER XV. 

A Fierce Battle with the Blackfeet — Daring Act of Kit Carson — ^Arrival 
of the Reserves and End of the Battle. . . .89 

CHAPTER XVI. 

At Brown's Hole — Trading in the Navajoe Country — Carson Serves as 
Hunter at Brown's Hole — Trapping in the Black Hills — On the Yellow- 
stone — Fight with the Blackfeet — Their Retreat to an Island — Their 
Flight During the Night — An Imposing Array of Warriors. . 95 

CHAPTER XVII. 

Tlie Morrow — ^Withdrawal of the Indian Army — At Fort Hall — In the 
Blackfoot Country — The Ambush — The Trappers Decide to Withdraw 
— Trapping in Other Localities — Carson Decides to Abandon the Busi- 
ness — ^Visits Bent's Fort Where He Serves as a Hunter for Eight 
Years, . . ..... loi 

CHAPTER XVIII. 

Carson Visits His Old Home in Missouri — He Goes to St. Louis— Voyage 
up the Missouri — Makes the Acquaintance of Lieutenant John C. Fre- 
mont — Is engaged as a Guide for Fremont's First Expedition — The 
Start Westward — Various Mishaps — The Emigrants — The False 
Alarm. ■. • ... .107 



IV. CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER XIX. 

On the Platte — A False Alarm — The Cheyennes — Fremont's Account of 
his Buffalo Hunt — Division of the Party — Fremont's Journey up th« 
South Fork— The Band of Indians— Arrival at St Vrain's Fort—Tht 
Journey to Fort Laramie. . . , .114 

CHAPTER XX. 

Alarming News— Fremont Presses Forward and is Not Molested — Arrival 
at South Pass — Fremont's Account of the Ascent of the Highest Peak 
of the Rocky Mountains — The Return to Fort Laramie — Carson Starts 
for New Mexico— End of Fremont's Plrst Exploring Expedition. I30 

CHAPTER XXL 

Carson Starts for the States — The Encampment of Captain Cook and his 
Dragoons — Carson Undertakes a Delicate and Dangerous Mission — Tht 
Perilous Journey — Return of Carson and the Mexican Boy — Encounter 
with Four Utah Indians — Arrival at Bent's Fort. . .127 

CHAPTER XXII. 

Kit Carson Hears Surprising News — He Visits Fremont — Is Re-engagei 
as Guide — Fremont's Account of his Visit to Salt Lake. . 133 

CHAPTER XXIIL 

The Return— Suffering for Food — A Royal Feast — On the Lewis Fork — 
Fort Hall — Division of the Party — Arrival at Dallas — The Sierra 
Nevada — Preparations for the Passage Through the Mountains — Fra. 
mont's Account. . . . . • '47 

CHAPTER XXIV. 

Continuation of Fremont's Account of tKt Passage Through the yonn. 
tains. ...... 158 

CHAPTER XXV. 

The Start Homeward^The Visiton in Camp and Their Story— Caraoa 
and Godey Start to the Rescue— Trailing the Enemy by Night— H 
Camp— The Attack— An Amaring Smccesi — Tlia Return. . iM 



CONTENTS. V. 

CHAPTER XXVI. 

Aniv«l at Bent's Fort — Carson goes to Taos and Decides to Become » 
Fanner — Arrival of a Messenger from Fremont — Carson and Owen6 
Repair Again to Bent's Fort — Carson Engaged as Guide for Fremont's 
TTiird Exploring Expedition — On the Great Divide — Division of the 
Parties — The Journey Acrctts the Desert — A Singular Meeting — Abori- 
ginal Horse Thieres. .... 173 

CHAPTER XXVII. 

AJuming Sounds — Danger of the Scouts — Fremont Goes to Their Rescue 
— Arrival at Sutter's Fort — Ordered out of California by the Mexican 
GoTernor — Fremont's Refusal — Withdrawal to Sacramento River — Ar- 
rival of Despatches from Washington — War with Mexico— Meeting 
with Lieutenant Gillespie — Night Attack by Klamath Indians. 179 

CHAPTER XXVIII. 

Retaliatory Measures — Fremont's Return to California — Capture of 
Sonoma — Sutter's Fort Placed Under Military Rule — Monterey Taken by 
Commodore Sloat — Capture of Lx)s Angeles by Fremont and Commo- 
dore Stockton— Carson Sent East as a Bearer of Despatches — The 
Meeting with Apaches — General Kearney — Bravery of the California 
Mexicans. . . . . 1S5 

CHAPTER XXIX. 

Daring Exploit of Kit Carson and lieutenant Beale — General Keanvy 
Saved. . . . . . .192 

CHAPTER XXX. 

Capture of Los Angeles — Court Martial of Fremont — Carson Appointed a 
Bearer of Dispatches to Washington — His Journey to St. Louis — Visits 
Washington — Appointed Lieutenant by President Polk — Ordered Back 
Across the Continent — His Joumev— Assigned to Duty at Tajon Pass- 
Again Ordered to Washington — P/s Appointment not Confirmed by 
the United States Senate — ^VisiJ *» Washington — Return to New 
Mexico. • • • . . 197 



VI. CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER XXXI. 

Hostility of the Apaches — Colonel Beale Sends an Expedition Against 
Them — Nothing Accomplished — Colonel Beale Leads an Expedition 
with Carson as Guide — Capture and Release of Two Chiefs — March to 
the Arkansas — Another Failure — Carson and Maxwell Build a Ranche — 
Fremont's Fourth Expedition — The Murderous Apaches — A Fruitless 
Pursuit . . . . . .204 



V 



CHAPTER XXXn. 

The Wounded Herder — A Successful Pursui*; — An Atrocious Plot — How 
it was Frustrated — Gratitude of the Gentlemen whom Carson was the 
Means of Saving From Death. . . . 211 

CHAPTER XXXni. 

Carson Visits St. Louis on Business — Encounter with Cheyennes on his 
Return — His Sagacity Does not Fail Him — Carson's Last Beaver 
Expedition — His California Speculation. . . .216 

CHAPTER XXXIV. 

In San Francisco — The Return Homeward — The Mormon Delegate Gives 
Carson Some Interesting Information — Carson's First Stirring Duties as 
Indian Agent — The Affection of the Red Men for Father Kit. 223 

CHAPTER XXXV. 

Trouble With _ the Apaches — Defeat of the Soldiers — Colonel Cook's 
Expedition Against Them — It Meets With Only Partial Success — Major 
Brooks' Attempt to Punish the Apaches — A Third Expedition. 229 

CHAPTER XXXVL 
Discovery of the Trail — Prairie Detectives. • • 235 

CHAPTER XXXVII. 
ThePursuitand Attack— "Two O'clock." » .241 

CHAPTER XXXVIII. 
Letter from General W. T. Sherman, and from General J. F. Rusling. 248 



INTRODUCTION. 



Christopher Carson, or as he was familiarly called, Kit 
Carson, was a man whose real worth was understood 
only by those with whom he was associated or who 
closely studied his character. He was more than hunter, 
trapper, guide, Indian agent and Colonel in the United 
States Army. He possessed in a marked degree those 
mental and moral qualities which would have made him 
prominent in whatever pursuit or profession he engaged. 

His lot was cast on the extreme western frontier, 
where, when but a youth, he earned the respect of the 
rough and frequently lawless men with whom he came in 
contact. Integrity, bravery, loyalty to friends, marvelous 
quickness in making right decisions, in crisis of danger, 
consummate knowledge ot woodcraft, a leadership as skil- 
ful as it was daring ; all these were distinguishing traits in 
the composition of Carson and were the foundations of the 
broader fame which he acquired as the friend and invalu- 
able counselor of Fremont, the Pathfinder, in his expedi- 
tions across the Rocky Mountains. 

Father Kit, as he came to be known among the 
Indians, risked his life scores of times for those who 
needed, but had no special claim upon his services. The 
red men were quick to learn that he always spoke with a 

3 



4 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

"single tongue," and that he was their unselfish friend. 
He went among his hostiles when no one of his race 
dare follow him; he averted more than one outbreak; 
he secured that which is impossible to secure — justice for 
the Indian — and his work from the time, when a mere boy 
he left his native Kentucky, was always well done. His 
memory will forever remain fragrant with those who 
appreciate true manhood and an unswerving devotion to 
the good of those among whom he lived and died. 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 



CHAPTER I. 



Kit Carson's Youth— His Visit to New Mexico— Acts as Inter- 
preter and in Various Other Employments — Joins a Party of 
Trappers and Engages in a Fight with Indians — Visits the 
Sacramento Valley. 

" Kit Carson," the most famous hunter, scout and guide 
ever known in this country, was a native of Kentucky, 
the scene of the principal exploits of Daniel Boone, 
Simon Kenton, the Wetzel brothers and other heroic 
pioneers whose names are identified with the history of 
the settlement of the West. 

Christopher Carson was born in Madison county, De- 
cember 24, 1809, and, while he was still an infant, his 
father removed to Central Missouri, which at that day was 
known as Upper Louisiana. It was an immense wilder- 
ness, sparsely settled and abounding with wild animals 
and treacherous Indians. The father of Carson, like most 
of the early pioneers, divided his time between cultivating 
the land and hunting the game in the forests. His house 
was made strong and was pierced with loop holes, so as 
to serve him in his defence against the red men that were 
likely to attack him and his family at any hour of the 



6 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

day or night. In such a school was trained the wonder- 
ful scout, hunter and guide. 

No advantages in the way of a common school educa- 
tion were within reach of the youth situated as was Kit 
Carson. It is to be believed, however, that under the 
tutilage of his father and mother, he picked up a fair 
knowledge of the rudimentary branches, for his attain- 
ments in that respect were above the majority of those 
with whom he was associated in after hfe. 

While a mere stripling, Kit became known as one of 
the most skilful rifle shots in that section of Missouri 
which produced some of the finest marksmen in the 
world. It was inevitable that he should form a passion 
for the woods, in which, like the great Boone, he would 
have been happy to wander for days and weeks at a 
time. 

When fifteen years old, he was apprenticed to a sad- 
dler, where he stayed two years. At the end of that 
time, however, the confinement had become so irksome 
that he could stand it no longer. He left the shop and 
joined a company of traders, preparing to start for Santa 
Fe, the capital of New Mexico, one of the most interest- 
ing towns in the south-west. The majority of its popu- 
lation are of Spanish and Mexican origin and speak 
Spanish. It is the centre of supplies for the surrounding 
country, and is often a scene of great activity. It stands 
on a plateau, more than a mile above the sea level, with 
another snow-capped mountain rising a mile higher. 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. / 

Tht climate is delightful and the supply of water from 
the springs and mountains is of the finest quality. 

Santa Fe, when first visited by the Spaniards in 1 542, 
was a populous Indian pueblo. It has been the capital 
of New Mexico for nearly two hundred and fifty years. 
The houses of the ancient town are made of adobe, one 
story high and the streets are unpaved, narrow, crooked 
and ill-looking. The inhabitants are of a low order, 
scarcely entitled to be ranked above the half-civilized, 
though of late years the infusion of western life and 
rugged civilization has given an impetus and character to 
the place for which, through three centuries, it waited in 
vain. 

The company to which young Kit Carson attached 
himself, was strongly armed and it made the perilous 
journey, across rivers, mountains and prairies, through a 
country infested with fierce Indians, without the loss of 
one of their number. This immunity was due to their 
vigilance and knowledge of the ways of the hostiles 
who, it may be said, were on all sides, from the begin- 
ning to the end of their journey. 

After reaching Santa Fe, Carson left the party and 
went to Taos, a small station to the north of Santa Fe. 
There he stayed through the winter of 1826-27, at the 
home of a veteran pioneer, from whom he gained not 
only a valuable knowledge of the country and its people, 
but became familiar with the Spanish language — an 
attainment which proved invaluable to him in after years. 



S LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

In the spring, he joined a party which set out for Mis- 
souri, JDut before reaching its destination, another com- 
pany of traders were met on their way to Santa Fe. 
Young Carson joined them, and some days later was 
back again m the quaint old capital of New Mexico. 

The youth's engagement ended with his arrival in 
the town, but there was nothing indolent in the nature 
of Carson, who immediately engaged himself as team- 
ster to a company about to start to El Paso, on the Rio 
Grande, near the frontier of New Mexico. He did not 
stay long before drifting back to Santa Fe, and finally to 
Taos, where he hired out as a cook during the following 
winter, but had not wrought long, when a wealthy trader, 
learning how well Carson understood the Spanish lan- 
guage, engaged him as interpreter. This duty compelled 
the youth to make another long journey to El Paso and 
Chihuahua, the latter being the capital of the province of 
the same name, and another of those ancient towns 
whose history forms one of the most interesting features 
of the"" country. It was founded in 1691 and a quarter of 
a century later, when the adjoining silver mines were in 
full operation, had a population of 70,000, though to-day 
it has scarcely a fifth of that number. 

The position of interpreter was more dignified than 
any yet held by Carson, and it was at his command, as 
long as he chose to hold it ; but to one of his restless 
nature it soon grew monotonous and he threw it up, mak- 
ing his way once more to Taos. The employment most 



UFE OF KIT CARSON. 9 

congenial to Carson's nature, and the one which he had 
been seeking ever since he left home, was that of hunter 
and trapper. The scarred veterans whom he met in the 
frontier and frontier posts gave him many accounts of 
their trapping experiences among the mountains and in 
the gloomy fastnesses where, while they hunted the bear, 
deer, beaver and other animals, the wild Indian hunted 
them. 

Carson had been in Taos a short time only when he 
gained the opportunity for which he was searching. A 
party of trappers in the employ of Kit's old friend had 
just come to Taos, having been driven from their trap- 
ping grounds by the Indians. The employer set about 
raismg a party strong enough to return to the trapping 
grounds, chastise the hostiles and resume business. 
Knowing the skill and bravery of the young Kentuckian, 
the gentleman made him an offer to join the party and 
Kit eagerly accepted it. 

The Mexicans have never been particularly friendly 
toward their neighbors north of the Rio Grande, and at 
that time a very strict law was in force which forbade the 
issuance of any license to American citizens to trap 
within Mexican territory. The company which mounted 
their horses and rode out of Taos gave the author- 
ities to understand that their errand was simply to 
chastise the red men, whereas their real purpose was to 
engage in trapping. With a view of misleading the offi- 
cers, they took a roundabout route which delayed their 
arrival in the section. Nevertheless, the hunters wers 



lO LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

desirious of punishing the Indians who had taken such 
Uberties with the small party that preceded them. On 
one of the tributaries of the Gila, the trappers came upon 
the identical band whom they attacked with such fierce- 
ness that more than a dozen were killed and the rest put 
to flight. The fight was a desperate one, but young as 
Carson was, he acquitted himself in a manner which won 
the warmest praise of those with him. He was unques- 
tionably daring, skilful and sagacious, and was certain, 
if his life was spared, to become one of the most valuable 
members of the party. 

Having driven the savages away, the Americans began 
or rather resumed their regular business of trapping. 
The beavers were so abundant that they met with great 
success. When the rodents seemed to diminish in num- 
ber, the hunters shifted their quarters, pursuing their pro- 
fession along the numerous streams until it was decided 
to divide into two parties, one of which returned to New 
Mexico, while the other pushed on toward the Sacramento 
Valley in California. Carson accompanied the latter, 
entering the region at that early day when no white man 
dreamed of the vast wealth of gold and precious metals 
which so crowded her soil and river beds that the wonder 
is the gleaming particles had not been detected many 
years before ; but, as the reader knows they lay quietly at 
rest until that eventful day in 1848, when the secret was 
revealed by Captain Sutter's race-way and the frantic mul- 
titudes flocked thither from the four quarters of the 
earth. 



CHAPTER II. 

California — Sufferings of the Hunters — The Mission of San Ga- 
briel — The Hudson Bay Trappers — Characteristics of Carson- 
He Leads the Party which Captures an Indian Village «i.dL 
Secures some Criminals. 

California, one of the most magnificent regions of 
the earth, with its amazing mineral wealth, its rich soil 
and "glorious climate," has its belts of sterility and 
desolation, where the bones of many a traveller and 
animal lie bleaching in the sun, just as they fell years ago, 
when the wretched victim sank down and perished for 
want of food and water. 

The hunting party to which Carson was attached, num- 
bered eighteen and they entered one of those forbidding 
wastes, where they suffered intensely. All their skill in 
the use of the rifle was of no avail, when there was no 
game to shoot and it was not long before they were 
forced to live on horse flesh to escape starvation. This^ 
hov/ever, was not so trying as might be supposed, pro- 
vided it did not last until the entire party were dis* 
mounted. 

Fortunately, in their straits, they encountered a party^ 
of Mohave Indians, who sold them enough food to 
remove all danger. These Indians form a part of the 
Yuma nation of the Pima family, and now make theif 



S2 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

Iiome on the Mohave and Colorado rivers in Arizona. 
They are tall, well-formed, warlike and industrious cul- 
tivators of the soil. Had tney chosen to attack the 
hunters, it would have gone ill with the whites, but the 
latter showed commendable prudence which might have 
served as a model to the hundreds who came after them, 
when they gained the good will of the red men. 
.sExtricating themselves from the dangerous stretch of 

---country, the trappers turned westward until they reached 
the mission of San Gabriel, one of those extensive estab- 
lishments formed by the Roman Catholic clergy a hun- 

%dred years ago. There were over a score, San Diego 

fateing the oldest. Each mission had its priests, a few 

Spanish or Mexican soldiers and scores, hundreds and 

sometimes thousands of Indian converts who received a 

•scant support and some religious instruction. 

The Mission of San Gabriel was by no means the 

largest in California, and yet at the time of Carson's visit 

•it owned 70,000 head of cattle, 200 horses, 3,000 mares, 

liundreds of mules, oxen and sheep, while the vineyards 

,^roduced 600 barrels of wine every year. 

Those old sovereigns of the soil dispensed hospitality 
-without stint to all who knocked at their gates. When 
•the trappers caught sight of the Mission, as they rode 
vi3ut from the wilderness, they knew what awaited them 
TjSn the way of entertainment. They were treated right 
:j'oyally, but remained only one day. 

i«Jot far away they reached another Mission of less 



UFE OF KIT CARSON. 1 3 

extent than the former, but, without halt, they pressed 
steadily forward toward the Sacramento River. The 
character of the section changed altogether. It was- 
exceedingly fertile and game was so abundant tl it the>^ 
feasted to their heart's content. When fully rest- J, they 
proceeded to the San Joaquin river down which they 
began trapping. 

While thus employed, they were surprised to discover 
signs of another trapping party near them. They 
wondered where they came from and it did not take thent 
long to learn that their neighbors were a company oi 
trappers belonging to the Hudson Bay Company — that 
enormous corporation, founded two centuries before^ 
whose agents and employes tramp over British America^ 
far to the northward of the frozen circle, and until a. 
recent date hunted through Oregon. 

The two parties were rivals in business, but they 
showed excellent sense by meeting on good terms andv 
treating each other as friends. They trapped near eachs. 
other until they came to the Sacramento once more^ 
when they parted company. The Hudson Bay trappers- 
started for the Columbia River, while the one to which: 
Carson was attached went mto camp where they were for 
the rest of the summer. With the approach of warm 
weather the trapping season ended and they devoted 
themselves to hunting and making ready for cold 
weather. 

It will be borne in mind that Kit Carson was still 9 



14 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

youth, not having reached his majority. He was of 
short, compact stature, no more than five feet, six inches 
tall, with light brown hair, gray eyes, large head, high 
forehead, broad shoulders, full chest, strong and possess- 
ing remarkable activity. Even at that early age, he had 
impressed the veteran hunters and trappers around him 
as one, possessing such remarkable abilities, that, if his 
life was spared, he was certain to become a man of mark. 
If we should attempt to specify the particular excellen- 
cies in which he surpassed those around him, it would be 
said that while Carson was one of the most fearless men 
who lived, yet he possessed splendid judgment. He 
seemed to know instinctively what could be accomplished 
by himself and friends in positions of extreme peril, and 
lie saw on the moment precisely how to do that which 
often was impossible to others. 

His knowledge of woodcraft and the peculiarities of 
the savage tribes around him was as perfect as it could 
be. He was a matchless hunter, and no man could han- 
dle a rifle with greater skill. The wilderness, the moun- 
tains, the Indians, the wild animals — these constituted the 
sphere in which nature intended Kit Carson should move 
and serve his fellow men as no one before or after him 
lias done. 

Added to these extraordinary qualifications, was the 
crowning one of all — modesty. Alas, how often tran- 
scendant merit is made repelling by overweening conceit. 
Xit Carson would have given his life before he would 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 1 5 

have travelled through the eastern cities, with his long 
hair dangling about his shoulders, his clothing bristHng 
with pistols and knives, while he strutted on the mimic 
stage as a representative of the untamed civilization of 
the great west. 

Carson was a superior hunter when a boy in Missouri, 
and the experience gained among the experienced hun- 
ters and trappers, soon caused him to become noted by 
those who had fought red men, trapped beaver and shot 
grizzly bears before he was born. And yet it could not 
have been that alone : it must have been his superior 
mental capacity which caused those heroes of a hundred 
perils to turn instinctively to him for counsel and guidance 
in situations of extreme peril. Among them all was no 
one with such masterful resources in that respect as he. 

While the trappers were encamped at this place, a 
messenger visited them from the Mission of San Rafael,, 
with a request that they would help chastise a party 
of Indians, who, after committing some outrages at the 
Mission, had fled to an Indian village. When a demand 
was made for the surrender of the refugees, the villagers 
not only refused to give them up, but attacked the party 
and drove them off. Appreciating the importance of 
upholding their authority, the priests sent to the trappers 
for assistance in bringing the guilty ones and their friends 
to terms. 

As soon as the request was made known, Carson and 
eleven of his companions volunteered to help their vis- 



l6 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

iters. Thus reinforced, the company from the Mission 
set out again for the Indian village. 

Nothing can attest more strongly the skill and brav- 
ery of Kit Carson, than the fact that he was at once 
selected to lead the party on its dangerous errand. While 
tie was as modest as a woman and with a voice as gentle 
^nd persuasive, he could not be ignorant of his own 
capacities, and he assumed charge without any pretense 
:of unfitness. 

It is easy to understand the great care required in this 
expedition, for the warriors in the village, having beaten 
off their assailants, naturally looked for their return with 
reinforcements, and, in order to insure success, it was 
necessary that the attack should be a surprise. 

Having brought his men quite close to the village 
unperceived. Kit gave the signal and the whole company 
swept through the place like a cyclone. There were a 
few minutes of terrific fighting, during which a score of 
warriors were killed, and then the entire village was cap- 
lured. Carson as the leader of the assailants, demanded 
the surrender of the offenders against the Mission. Not 
Mdaring to disobey such a summons, they were delivered 
up to the authorities, and Carson, seeing nothing more 
to do for his friends, returned with his companions to 
'camp and resumed hunting and their preparations for 
>£old weather 



CHAPTER III. 

The Trapper's Life — Indian Horse Thieves — Carson's SkilfuC 
Pursuit and Surprise of the Savages — Arrival at Los Angeles- 
Trouble with the Authorities — A Singular Escape. 

The trappers being in the heart of the Indian country^ 
■with hostile on every hand, were cautious in all their 
movements. When one of the grizzled hunters in the 
depths of the wilderness fired his gun at some deer, ante- 
lope or bear, he hastily reloaded his rifle, listening mean- 
while for sounds of the stealthy footprints of his enemy;^ 
He knew not when the treacherous shot would be sent 
from behind the rock or clump of bushes, but he had 
learned long before, that, when he penetrated the western 
wilds and followed the calling of trapper, he took his life 
in his hands and he was ready to " go under," whenever 
the fate so decreed. 

The most flagrant crime on the frontier is horse steal- 
ing. He who shoots one of his fellow men has a chance- 
of escaping punishment almost as good as that afforded' 
in civilized communities, but if he steals a horse and is= 
caught, his case is hopeless. It may be said that the 
value of the animal to the hunter or trapper is beyond' 
all calculation, and, inasmuch as the red man is equally 
appreciative, Carson always warned his friends to be oir 
the watch against the dusky thieves. Sentinels were on* 
2 17 



1 8 UFE OF KIT CARSON. 

guard while others slept, but the very calamity against 
which they thus sought to protect themselves overtook 
them. 

One dark night a number of Indians stole by the sen- 
tinels and before their presence was discovered, drove otf 
the major part of the horses. In the morning, when the 
alarming truth became known, the employer of the trap- 
pers asked Carson to take twelve of the men and, do his 
utmost to recover those that were stolen. Carson 
assented at once, and, in his quiet, self-possessed fashion, 
collected his comrades who were speedily in the saddle 
and galloping along the trail of the thieves. 

It may strike the reader that an off-hand statement 
like the foregoing relates to a proceeding of no special 
difficulty or peril. A party of brave white men were 
pursuing a company of Indian horse thieves and the 
chances of escape and capture were about equal. Thus 
the matter presents itself to the ordinary spectator, 
whereas the truth was far different. 

In the first place, the savages, being as well mounted 
as their pursuers, were sure to maintain a swift pace, so 
long as they believed any danger threatened. They 
would keep a keen watch of the back trail and would be 
quick to detect the approach of enemies. If pressed 
hard, they would act as the Apaches and Comanches do, 
when they find the United States troops at their heels, — 
break up in so many small parties that it is impossible to 
follow them. 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, I9 

First of all, therefore, Carson had two achievements 
before him — and the accomplishment of either seemed 
to render the other impossible : he must travel at a faster 
rate than the thieves, and, at the same time keep them 
in ignorance of his pursuit. It is on such occasions that 
a man's wood-craft and knowledge of the country serve 
him so well. Many a time, during the career of Kit Car- 
son, did he outwit the red men and white criminals, not 
hy galloping along with his eye upon their footprints, 
but by reasoning out with unerring skill, the destination 
or refuge, which the criminals had in mind. Having 
settled that all important question, he aimed at the same 
point and frequently reached it first. Thus it came about 
that often the fugitive, while hurrying along and glancing 
furtively behind him, suddenly found himself face to face 
with his pursuer, whose acquaintance with the country 
enabled him to find the shorter route. 

It took Carson only a few minutes to satisfy himself 
that the criminals were heading for the Sierra Nevada 
Mountains, but, inasmuch as they were following a direct 
course, he could only take their trail. Where there were 
so many animals in flight, it was impossible to hide their 
tracks and the thieves made no attempt to do so. They 
struck the horses into a sweeping gallop, which with a 
few interruptions they maintained until they were a hun- 
dred miles from the camp of the white men and among 
the fastnesses of the Sierras. 

Then it was the red men made a careful survey of the 



20 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

trail behind them. The black penetrating eyes scanned 
the country with a piercing keenness which it would seem 
shut out all possibility of concealment. Nowhere could 
they detect the faint smoke climbing toward the sky from 
among the trees nor could they gain sight of the Hne of 
horsemen winding around the rocks in the distance. 
Nothing resembling a human being was visible. Surely 
they were warranted in believing themselves perfectly 
secure. 

Such being their conclusion, they prepared for a great 
feast. Six of the stolen horses were killed and the red 
men became as ardent hipophagi as was the club of 
advanced Parisians a short time ago. The roasted meat 
tasted as fine to them as though it was the choicest slices 
from the bison or deer, and they ate and frolicked like so 
many children let loose for a holiday. 

But in the midst of their feast, was heard a series of 
frightful yells and whoops. The appalled Indians had 
scarcely time to turn their eyes when a dozen horsemen, 
that seemed to have risen from the very ground, thun- 
dered down upon them. Carson and his men had over- 
taken the thieves and they now swept down upon them 
with resistless tiry. The fight was as short as it was 
fierce. The red men fell on the right and left, and those 
who escaped the wrath of the trappers, scattered and ran 
as if a hundred bomb shells were exploding around them. 
Every horse stolen (except the six killed for the feast), 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 21 

were recovered and Carson took them back to camp with- 
out the loss of a man. 

The hunters stayed until early autumn, when their 
employer decided to go to New Mexico. The journey 
led for a great portion of the way through a country 
over which they had travelled, and which therefore was 
famiHar to them. After halting a brief while at the Mis- 
sion of San Fernando, they arrived at Los Angeles, 
which like the rest of the country as the reader knows, 
belonged to Mexico. As it was apparent that the horse- 
men were hunters and trappers, the authorities demanded 
their written license to pursue their calling in Mexican 
territory. Such was the law and the officials were war- 
ranted in making the demand, but it need not be said 
that the party were compelled to admit they had nothing 
of the kind in their possession. 

The authorities thereupon determined to arrest the 
hunters, but knowing their desperate nature, hesitated as 
to the safe means of doing so. They finally hit upon a 
rather ingenious, though unfair means of disarming the 
white men: they began giving them "fire water" to 
drink, refusing to accept pay therefor. Those who lead 
lives of hardship and peril are generally fond of such 
mdulgence, and, though the trappers could not fail to 
understand the purpose of the Mexicans, and though 
they knew the disastrous consequences of giving away 
to temptation, they yielded and took in their mouths the 
enemy which stole away their brains. 

The employer became alarmed and saw that something 



22 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

must be done at once or everything would be lost. Car-, 
son had been too wise to fall into the snare, and he 
turned to him. 

"Take three of the soberest men," said he, "and the 
loose animals and camp equipage and push out of the 
place. I will join you as soon as I can, but you musn't 
linger for me. If I fail to join you, hasten to New Mex- 
ico and make known that I and the rest of my men have 
been massacred.'' 

These instructions were definite and they shewed the 
gravity of the situation. Carson did as directed, while 
the employer gave his attention to the rest of the men. 
It was high time that he did so, for they were fast suc- 
cumbing to their appetites. Despite the indignant pro- 
tests and efforts of the employer they would have 
undoubtedly fallen victims but for an unlooked for occur- 
rence. 

One of the trappers who was so much under the influ- 
ence of liquor as to become reckless, fired upon and 
slightly wounded a native of the place. The act threw 
the Mexicans into a panic of terror, and they fled from 
the presence of the dreaded Americans who seemed eager 
for any sanguinary deed. 

The employer was wise enough to take advantage ot 
the occurrence and he succeeded, after much labor, in 
getting his half-intoxicated men together and out of the 
place. The horses were forced to their utmost and the 
same night they overtook Carson and his anxious com- 
panions. All danger from that source was ended. 



CHAPTER IV. 

An Alarming Visit — Carson's Resources — On the Colorado and 
Gila — Capturing a Herd of Horses and Mules — The Raiders- 
Turning the Tables — Caching their Peltries — Return to Santa 
Fe — Carson Goes upon a Second Trapping Expedition — Hunt- 
ing with an Old Mountaineer — A Visit from Crow Indians. 

A v/EEK or more later, the trappers again reached the 
Colorado River. They had traveled at a leisurely pace 
and once more they went into camp, where they were 
familiar with the country. Men leading such lives as 
they, were accustomed to all kinds of surprises, but it 
may be doubted whether the trappers were more amazed 
in all their existence than when five hundred Indian war- 
riors made their appearance and with signs of friendship 
overran the camp before they could be prevented or 
checked. 

The hunters did not know what to make of the pro- 
ceeding, and looked to Carson for advice. He had 
already discovered that the situation was one of the 
gravest danger. Despite the professions of friendship, 
Kit saw that each warrior had his weapons under his 
dress, where he hoped they were not noticed by the 
whites. Still worse, most of the hunters were absent 
visiting their traps, only Kit and a few of his companions 
being in camp. The occasion was where it was neces- 

23 



24 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

saiy to decide at once what to do and then to do it with- 
out flinching. 

Among the red men was one who spoke Spanish and 
to him Carson addressed himself: 

" You must leave the camp at once ; if you don't do 
so without a minute's delay, we shall attack you and 
each of us is sure to kill one warrior if not more." 

These brave words accompanied by such determination 
of manner were in such conb'ast to the usual course of 
the cowardly Mexicans that the Indians were taken all 
aback. They could not suspect the earnestness of the 
short, sturdy-framed leader, nor could they doubt that 
though the Indians would be sure to overwhelm the 
little band, yet they would have to pay dearly for the 
privilege. It took them but a few minutes to conclude 
the price was altogether too high and they drew off with-^ 
out making a hostile demonstration against the brave 
Carson and his men. 

The trappers worked their way down the Colorado 
until they arrived at tidewater, when they moved to the 
Gila, along which they trapped until they reached the 
mouth of the San Pedro. They were in sore need of 
horses with which to transport their furs and peltries, 
that had become numerous and bulky. While in this 
neighborhood, they discovered a large herd of horses 
and mules in the possession of a few Indians. According 
to the morality of the border this property was legiti- 
mate prey, but in point of fact when the trappers deter- 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 2$ 

mined to take the animals from the aborigines, they 
became thieves and robbers. However, it is not to be 
hoped that a single member of the company felt the 
slightest twinge of conscience when he rode at full speed, 
yelling to the highest bent, and helped scatter the terri- 
fied red men to the winds. The entire herd fell into the 
hands of the whites, and, congratulating themselves on 
their good fortune, they kindled a huge fire and 
encamped for the night. 

Most of the men had lain down with the intention of 
sleeping until morning, and Kit sat looking in the fire, 
when his trained ear caught a peculiar sound. At first, 
it seemed to be the faint roll of distant thunder, but he 
knew it was not. He listened carefully and was able to 
tell the direction whence came the singular noise, but 
remained uncertain as to its cause. Then, as he had 
done many a time, he leaned over and pressed his ear to 
the solid earth. Immediately the rumbling became more 
distinct and he recognized what it meant: it was the 
tramp of numerous hoofs galloping forward. 

Carson and several of his men stole noiselessly out to 
reconnoissance and found a half dozen warriors hurrying 
along a drove of more than a hundred horses. They 
had been on a raid among the Mexican settlements in 
Sonora and were now returning home with their plunder. 

The temptation was one which Carson and his com- 
panions could not resist. They sent a volley from their 
rifles among the thieves, which threw them into such a 



a6 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

panic that they dashed off at full speed without giving 
the least thought to their valuable property. The latter, 
as a matter of course was taken charge of by the trappers 
who were glad of the opportunity to chastise the cow- 
ardly marauders. 

Under the circumstances, however, the animals were 
of little value to the hunters, who had all they needed. 
It was beyond their power to return them to their 
owners, but the best were selected, several of the plump- 
est killed and cured, and the rest turned loose to go 
whither they chose. 

The trappers continued up the Gila until near the cop- 
per mines of New Mexico, where they found a party of 
white men trading with the Indians. The peltries were 
cached and placed in charge of their friends, while Car- 
son and his companions continued on until they reached 
Santa Fe. There their employer bought a license to 
trade with the Indians who lived near the copper mines. 
Then they went back and procuring their furs, returned 
once more to Santa Fe, where they were sold for more 
than twenty thousand dollars. This being equitably 
divided among the hunters, furnished each a goodly sum. 
Like so many sailors just ashore from a long voyage, 
most of the trappers went on a prolonged carousal, which 
caused their money to melt like snow in the sun. When 
their pockets were empty, they had aching heads, weak 
frames and only the memory of their feverish pleasures. 

Kit Carson did not go through this trial unscathed. 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 2/ 

He drank and spreed with the rest, but he awoke to the 
folly and madness of his course sooner than they and the 
sad lesson learned at the time, lasted him through life. 
The baneful habit was not fastened upon him, and he not 
only acquired the mastery over self, but was able more 
than once to save others from falling into the whirlpool 
which has swept unnumbered multitudes to wretchedness 
and death. 

Carson found little in the way of congenial employ- 
ment until the fall of the year when he joined a second 
trapping expedition. The first had won him such a 
reputation for sagacity, daring and skill, that his services 
were always in demand, and those who were forming 
such enterprises sought him out among the very first. 

The new party was in charge of an experienced moun- 
taineer, who told Kit his intention was to trap along the 
principal streams of the Rocky Mountains. He was 
well acquainted with the region and was confident that 
the expedition would not only be enjoyable and thrilling 
in the highest degree, but would prove profitable to all. 

The party travelled northward until they reached the 
Platte River where the business began. They moved 
from stream to stream, as necessity demanded, shooting 
such game as they needed, exchanging shots with the 
watchful red men, who killed four of the trappers while 
hunting bison, and steadily adding to their stock of furs 
until the close of the season in the spring of 183 1. 
I-earning that an old mountaineer, named Captain Gaunt, 



2S LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

had spent the winter at Laramie River and was then at 
New Park, Kit Carson and four of his friends set out to 
join him. It was a long and perilous journey, but they 
made it in safety and the Captain gave them glad wel- 
come. They hunted together for many months following 
until the Captain went to Taos to sell his peltries. On 
his return, operations were resumed until the weather 
became so cold they were forced into winter quarters. 

The winter proved very severe. The snow was so 
deep that only by cutting down numerous cottonwoods 
and using the bark and twigs for fodder were the animals 
saved from starvation. Fortunately, they had laid in a 
good stock of bison meat so that the trappers themselves 
underwent no suffering for food. In fact, they found 
little to do except to pass the time in idleness. With 
abundant food, plenty of tobacco and the means of engag- 
ing in certain games, they whiled away the long winter 
days and evenings until the signs of spring appeared. 

But while the winds were moaning around their hut, 
in which they made their home, and the snow rattled 
like fine sand against the logs, they were taught again 
tliat no weather is severe enough to keep the wily red 
man within his wigwam. A party of Crow Indians dis- 
covered the camp of the trappers and one tempestuous 
night made them a stealthy visit. They departed during 
the darkness, and, when they went away, took with them 
nine of the very best horses of the hunters — a loss too 
serious to be borne without using every recourse to pre- 
vent it. 



CHAPTER V. 

Kit Carson's Decision — A Hot Pursuit and an Unexpected Dis. 
covery — Weary Waiting — A Snow Balling Party — A i/aring 
Attack — Brilliant Exploit. 

Instinctively every one turned to Carson to learn 
what he had to advise and yet each was certain what he 
would say. 

'< It'll never do, boys, to let them steal our horses in 
that style," he remarked in his quiet fashion, compressing 
his lips and shaking his head, while his eyes flashed with 
a dangerous light. 

All knew what his words and manner meant, and in a 
twinkling the thirteen men were in their saddles, and, 
with their gallant leader at their head, galloped forth off 
in pursuit. 

It would be supposed where the ground was covered 
with snow to such a depth, that it was the easiest matter 
imaginable to follow the trail, and yet Kit and his com- 
panions found it one of the most difficult tasks they had 
ever undertaken. Hundreds of bison had repeatedly 
crossed the tracks since they were made and less experi- 
enced eyes than those of the trappers would have given 
over the search in despair. 

But no one thought of turning back, and the pursuit 
was pushed unflaggingly for fully forty miles. Not the 

29 



30 LIFE OF KI7 CARSON, 

first glimpse had been obtained of the Indians, and the 
horses that had been pushed so hard finally gave out. 
They were in poor condition, and, when the company 
came to a halt, showed such exhaustion that it was evi- 
dent they could not be forced much further. It was 
decided, therefore, to go into camp. Accordingly, they 
turned the heads of their panting animals toward a piece 
of woods a short distance away. 

Before the shelter was reached, the trappers were 
astonished to observe a column of smoke rising above the 
trees. They looked in each others' faces with a smile of 
gratification : inasmuch as the trail led into the grove and 
it was evident a camp fire was burning there, it followed 
that they were close to the thieves whom they had fol- 
lowed such a long distance. 

The discovery infused new warmth into the blood of 
the hunters, who were fairly a-tremble with eagerness to 
attack the unsuspecting Indians. 

But all were too experienced in the ways of the wilder- 
ness to allow their impatience to betray them into any 
indiscretion. They deemed it necessary their assault 
should be a surprise and they, therefore, withdrew to a 
secluded place in the woods and waited for night. 

This was trying to a painful degree. The weather 
which had been bitterly cold during the day, grew still 
colder, until the animals shivered as if with the ague. 
They were carefully tied where the trees partly sheltered 
them from the cutting wind and the hunters made sure 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 3 1 

their arms were ready. Then, when the sun went down 
and darkness crept over the snowy landscape, the men 
moved around so as to approach the camp from the direc- 
tion opposite to that from which the Indians would 
naturally look for pursuit. 

When close enough to catch sight of the flames among 
the trees, the hunters sank on their knees and crept noise- 
lessly forward until able to gain a full view of the dusky 
thieves. They were surprised at what they saw. The 
savages had thrown some logs and stones together so as 
to make a couple of rude forts and had divided them- 
selves into two parties. It was characteristic of them 
that they were holding a dance and feast in honor of the 
brilliant style in which they had outwitted the trappers 
forty miles away. 

The scene was quite interesting, especially when our 
friends plainly saw their stolen animals tied near one of 
the forts. The sight of their property was anything but 
soothing to the wrathful trappers, who were resolved not 
to go back to their own camp without taking the horses 
along. 

But the Crows were strong in numbers, well armed and 
ready to fight on the briefest notice. It would have been 
an act of the greatest rashness to charge upon their camp, 
while they were excited to an unusual degree by the 
rejoicing in which all took a hilarious part. The whites 
decided to wait several hours longer until most of their 
enemies would be unconscious in slumber. 



32 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

All this time the weather was growing colder, and, 
toughened as the trappers had become by years of expos- 
ure, they suffered greatly. They dare not move about 
to keep up the circulation of their blood, for the slightest 
noise was liable to attract the suspicion of some of the 
Crows who might be prowling through the grove. More 
than once Carson feared his limbs were freezing, but he 
held out like the genuine hero he was, and his compan- 
ions were all worthy of him. 

At last the dance was over and the tired warriors 
wrapped their blankets around their forms and stretched 
out to rest. Their manner showed they had no thought 
that a foe was anywhere in the neighborhood. Although 
such men sleep lightly, they do not remain long awake 
when courting sleep, and in a brief while all were uncon- 
scious except the sentinels on duty. Even they were so 
confident that nothing threatened, that they became less 
vigilant than usual. 

" Sh now is the time," whispered the youthful leader. 

They had decided long before upon their plan of 
action, so that no time was now lost in consultation. 
Kit and five of his men began slowly creeping toward 
their horses. This was anything but a pleasant occupa- 
tion, for the snow, it will be remembered, was deep on the 
ground ; but such veterans cared nothing for a trifle like 
that, and they speedily reached their animals. 

Such an attempt is always a dangerous one, for the 
horse of the Indian or white hunter often proves his 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 33 

most skilful sentinel. He is able to detect the stealthy 
approach of a scout, long before the straining ear of his 
master can catch the slightest sound. If the beasts 
should become frightened by the shadowy figures crawl- 
ing over the snow, they would be likely to alarm the 
camp; but Carson and his companions managed it so 
well that there was not a single neigh or stamp of a 
hoof. 

Silently rising to their feet, they cut the halters which 
held the horses fast, and then, withdrawing a slight dis- 
tance, began throwing snowballs at them. These feathery 
missiles fell among and struck against them, until, to 
escape the mimic bombardment they moved out the 
wood altogether, where they were taken charge by the 
others who were waiting. All this was accomplished 
without attracting the attention of a single Indian. 

Having met with such success, common prudence and 
sense suggested that the trappers should make all haste 
to their own comfortable quarters, so many long miles 
away; but they had scarcely joined each other when they 
fell into an earnest discussion as to what the next step 
should be. 

Some were in favor of withdrawing with the least pos- 
sible delay, but Kit Carson and a couple of daring spirits 
were bent on going back and punishing the thieves who 
had given them so much trouble. As they could not be 
argued out of their purpose, the others, as a matter of 
course, agreed to give them their aid. 



34 ^PE OF KIT CARSON. 

Three of the trappers were sent to take the recaptured 
animals to where the saddle horses were secured while 
the others advanced directly upon the Indian camp. 
They moved cautiously as was their custom and were 
almost upon the Crows, when one of their dogs gave 
notice of danger by a vigorous barking. On the instant, 
the warriors leaped to their feet and the fight opened. 
So many of the Indians were shot down and the advan- 
tage was so strongly against them, that the survivors 
hastily ran into the nearest fort, from which they returned 
the fire of their assailants. The latter, however, had 
stationed themselves behind trees, where they were safe 
against the whistling bullets, and in their attack they 
threw away very few shots indeed. 

It began growing light in the east, and, as soon as the 
Crows discovered how few composed the besieging force, 
they in turn became the assailants, and rushed out of 
their fort with their frightful war-whoops, but they were 
met by such a destructive fire that they skurried back 
again. 

The second attack of the savages was so furious that the 
trappers were forced to fall back, but the reserve, as it 
may be called, speedily joined them, and once more 
drove the Indians into their fort. Several of the whites 
had been wounded though not dangerously, and both 
parties having had enough of fighting, the battle ended 



CHAPTER VI. 

The British and American Trapper — Hunting on the Laramie— 
The Deserters — The Vain Pursuit — Arrival of Friends — The 
Return Journey — The Night Alarm — The Attack Upon the 
Camp — Pursuit and Recovery of Horses. 

A HALF century ago the vast region beyond the Rocky 
Mountains was comparatively unknown and unexplored. 
Its general features of course were understood, but the 
interior was like the central portion of Australia or Africa. 
Clarke and Lewis made their famous expedition to Ore- 
gon during the early days of the century, and helped to 
turn general attention in that direction. Its growth and 
development since then is one of the wonders of the age. 

But there was one class (if the word may be used), 
who never hesitated to penetrate the wildest and most 
dangerous recesses of the far West and Northwest : those 
were the hunters and trappers. As we have already 
stated, the employes of the venerable and all-embrac- 
ing Hudson Bay Company ranged over British America 
and through Oregon, to which vast territory they pos^ 
sessed the clear legal right, besides which they and the 
trappers of the American Fur Company frequently tres* 
passed on each others reserves, and not infrequently 
came in bloody collision with each other. 

Far to the northward, the Indian drove his birch canoe 

35 



36 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

across the silent Athabasca and Great Bear Lakes, on 
his way with his peltries to the distant factory or post 
of the Company ; along the frozen shores of the lone 
Mackenzie (the only American river flowing into the 
Arctic Ocean), the trapper glided on his snow shoes, or 
with his sturdy dogs and sleigh, fought his way over the 
snowy wastes of Prince Rupert's Land ; the brigades in 
their boats rounded the curves of the Saskatchewan, 
keeping time with their paddles to their own cheery 
songs ; their camp fires were kindled in the land of the 
Assiniboine and they set their traps in the wildest 
recesses of the Rocky Mountains where the whirling 
snow storms almost carried them off their feet; but north 
of the dividing line, the hunters had little if anything to 
fear from the red men. Though they encountered in the 
loneliest and most desolate distant regions, they gener- 
ally met and seperated as friends. Among the perils of 
the trapper's life in British America was not reckoned 
that from the hostile natives. 

It was far different within our own territory. Those 
who left our frontier States and pushed westward, and 
those who penetrated northward and eastward from the 
Mexican country, knew they were invading the hunting 
grounds of the fiercest Indians on the American conti- 
nent. We have already told enough to show the intense 
hostility of the red men ; between them and the hunters 
and trappers raged a war that never ceased or slackened, 
except when policy held it for a time in check. 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 37 

The little group of horsemen, who rode out from Inde- 
pendence or Westport, or who took steamer at St. Louis 
up the Missouri, often came back with several of their 
number missing. Up among the mountains, they had 
gone out to visit their traps and had never come back to 
camp. The lurking Blackfoot, or Sioux, or Crow, had 
aimed all too well, and, as he bounded whooping away, 
he swung aloft the scalp of his victim whose trapping 
days were ended forever. 

After recovering their horses from the band of Crows, 
Carson and his companions returned to camp, where they 
remained until spring, when they cached their furs and 
made their way to the Laramie River on another hunt- 
ing expedition. While thus employed, a couple of the 
men deserted taking several of the best animals. Kit 
Carson and a single companion were sent in pursuit, the 
rascals having a good day's start. A desperate fight 
was sure to follow a meeting between the parties, for 
Carson would never forgive such treachery, and the 
deserters were not the ones to permit themselves to be 
despoiled of their booty without doing their utmost to 
prevent it. 

It was suspected that they were on their way to the 
place where the beaver had been cached ; and disregard- 
ing the trail, therefore Carson made all haste thither. It 
need not be said that he lost no time on the road, but 
when he reached their old camp, he found the deserters 



38 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

had preceded him. They had stolen several thousand 
dollars worth of furs and departed. 

Carson was more anxious than ever to overtake the 
scoundrels. He and his companion made diligent search, 
but failed utterly to find them. They were never seen 
or heard of again, and Carson was convinced they had 
fallen victims to the Indians who in turn made off with 
the stolen peltries. 

It will be borne in mind that Kit and his friend were 
several hundred miles from the main body of hunters, 
and in one of the most dangerous countries they had 
ever visited. So dangerous, indeed, did they consider an 
attempt to return to them, that they decided not to make 
it, but to stay in the old camp. Inasmuch as it would 
be impossible to keep their presence from the knowl- 
edge of the Indians, they threw up some rude fortifica- 
tions and never relaxed their vigilance. When Carson 
wrapped his blanket around him, and lay down to rest, 
he knew his companion was on guard and would not 
slumber. It was the same with his friend, their watch- 
fulness undoubtedly preventing the attack which scarcely 
could have failed to be effectual. 

It was needful now and then that one of them should 
venture out to procure game, but that was so plentiful 
that he was never compelled to go far, and he used such 
extreme care that he was not even so much as fired 
upon. 

Thus the time passed, until at the end of several weeks, 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 39 

the hunters were surprised and delighted by the arrival 
of more than a dozen men on their way with a complete 
outfit to join the main body. Carson and his friend 
were glad enough to go with them and the long journey 
was begun. They had not gone far, when they 
exchanged shots with hostiles and there were almost 
daily skirmishes with them. By sunset they had trav- 
elled a long distance, and went into camp, feehng cer- 
tain that though Indians had not shown themselves, they 
were in the vicinity. To prevent a stampede of their 
animals, the long ropes around their necks were fastened 
to stakes driven deep into the earth. This arrangement 
allowed them to graze over sufficient ground and opposed 
an almost insuperable obstacle to the success of the dusky 
thieves prowling around. 

It was yet early in the evening when one of the dogs 
belonging to the camp began barking. A score of causes 
might have caused this but Carson believed the incite- 
ment in that instance was the one most dreaded. Sev- 
eral men were added to the guard and the rest lay down, 
too uneasy to gain much slumber, however. 

The trappers were right in their suspicion that savages 
were near but they could not have failed to note what 
precautions had been taken by the whites against sur- 
prise and they withdrew without molesting them. 

The party were in a beaver country, and Carson and 
three of his men went up the stream some distance to 
learn whether it was worth their while to set the traps. 



40 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

They had not been gone long when a party of Indians, 
who were probably awaiting such an opportunity, 
charged upon the camp and drove off all the loose horses. 
Four of the hunters irtstantly saddled the swiftest of those 
remaining and started in hot pursuit. So hot indeed 
was the pursuit that they speedily came up with the 
marauders and opened a running fight. One of the 
hunters was badly wounded, while a warrior was shot 
from his horse pitching headlong to the earth with a 
screech of agony. The remaining ones were pressed so 
hard that they were glad enough to abandon the property 
which came back to the rightful owners, probably before 
an animal was able to comprehend what had taken place. 

The promptness and daring of the hunters had pre- 
vented a serious loss, and though one of their number 
was severely hurt, his wound was not mortal. It may 
be said that he suffered much but fully recovered in time. 
Men with such iron constitutions and rugged frames ral- 
lied from injuries that would have swept off those accus- 
tomed to less stirring lives. 

Having righted matters, so far as possible, the trap- 
pers picketed their horses and awaited the return of 
Carson and his companions. They were much disturbed 
by fears for their safety, as in truth they had good cause 
to be. 



CHAPTER VII. 

An Unexpected Meeting— The Ambush— A Daring and Perilous 
Ride — Return to Camp — Disappointments — The Beaver. 

Meanwhile the Indians made it exceedingly lively for 
Kit Carson and his three companions. 

The latter had heard so much of the abundance of 
beavers in a certain section that they determined to visit 
it and make a thorough exploration. To do this, it was 
necessary to ride over a lofty Rocky Mountain peak or 
take many hours to pass around it. Very naturally they 
concluded to *' cut across lots," confident of their ability 
to take care of themselves, no matter what danger threat- 
ened. 

The ascent proved very exhausting to men and ani- 
mals, for the trappers did not compel the weary beasts to 
bear them up the steep slope where it tired them to force 
their own way. They rested many times, but finally 
accomplished the ascent and passed over into the valley 
beyond. There, disappointment awaited them. The 
most careful search failed to show the first sign of a 
beaver and they had their labor for their pains. 

The toil of climbing the mountain peak was so severe 
that the hunters concluded to take the longer route home. 
Their steeds had been pushed so hard, that they were 
permitted to set their own pace on the return. This nat- 

41 



42 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

urally enough was a deliberate walk, while their riders 
talked, laughed, jested and occasionally made some 
remark on the magnificent scenery by which they were 
surrounded. There was no call for haste, and they knew 
nothing of what had taken place in camp after their 
departure ; otherwise, they might have felt more impa- 
tience to rejoin their friends. 

All at once, the hunters descried four Indian warriors 
in the path in front. They were splendidly mounted, 
their hair ornamented with stained eagle feathers, their 
ugly countenances daubed with yellow, black and crimson 
paint, and they were fully armed. Their appearance 
showed they were on the war path. 

Such undoubtedly being the case, a sight of the braves 
was a challenge to the hunters who accepted it without a 
second's hesitation. 

Pausing not a moment to consult on their plan of 
action, Kit and his companions spurred their horses to a 
dead run, with the purpose of bringing them within 
range of their rifles, but the steeds of the dusky foes 
were fleet of foot and they sped away like the wind. 

The pursuit was a furious one, until the flying fugitives 
shot by a hill, when more than fifty warriors similarly 
mounted and accoutred, dashed out to intercept the 
enthusiastic hunters. Just then it dawned upon Kit and 
his companions that the whole proceeding was a trap 
arranged by the Indians into which he and his friends 
had dashed at headlong speed. 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 43 

It was in such crises that Kit Carson displayed his 
marvelous resources and lightning-like perception of the 
best course to adopt. The discovery of the ambush 
would have thrown almost any company of men, no mat- 
ter how brave into a panic, or at least into temporary 
confusion which would have been equally disastrous. 
Most probably they would have reined up or wheeled 
about and fled in the opposite direction. The whole band 
would have dashed in pursuit and the running fight 
between four men and more than twelve times their num- 
ber, every one of whom it is fair to presume was thor- 
oughly familiar with the country, could have resulted in 
but one way. Skilled and daring as were Carson and his 
comrades, they could not accomplish the impossible, as 
they would have had to do in order to escape the yelling 
band behind them. 

Kit was slightly in advance of the others, and he did 
not check his animal in the least. On the contrary, he 
urged him to his utmost, and the four sped straight ahead 
on a dead run, seemingly as if they meant to charge the 
entire war party. 

Such, however, was not their intention : they shied off 
as much as they could, and, throwing themselves forward 
and over the side of their horses, ran the terrible gaunt- 
let. No one of the trappers fired a shot, for if dismounted 
by the bullets of their enemies, each wished to have his 
loaded rifle in hand, with which to make his last defense. 

The very audacity of the movement amazed the 



44 LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

Indians. By the time they comprehended what the white 
men were doing, they were thundering in front of them. 
Then the warriors opened fire, and the bullets whistled 
about the horses and riders, who kept their steeds to the 
highest bent and finally passed beyond danger — their 
escape one of the most extraordinary on record. 

The Indians did not pursue the hunters, two of whom 
had been struck by their bullets, and Carson and his 
friends drew their horses down to a more moderate pace. 
The great scout admitted that he was never more utterly 
deceived and entrapped by the red man in all his life. 
But he saw in the occurrence a deeper significance than 
appeared on the surface. The ambush into which he and 
his friends had been led was only a part of the campaign 
against the entire party, who, weakened by the absence of 
Carson and his companions were likely to fall victims to 
such a large band of warriors. Trembling with fear for 
their comrades, they again forced their animals to a high 
speed and lost no time in making their way back to 
camp. They found everything in good shape, much to 
their relief, and were not at all surprised to learn of the 
visit that had been made by the savages during the 
absence of Kit and his companions. 

The wounds of the two trappers who were shot while 
running the fiery gauntlet, were found to be of such a 
serious nature that the party had not gone far when they 
were obliged to go into camp again. One of them espe- 
ciftlly, was in such a bad way that it was found necessary 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 45 

to carry him on a litter until the main camp was reached. 
There he was allowed to rest and everything possible was 
done to make him comfortable. When he had fully 
recovered, the entire company headed for Old Park, once 
famous on account of the immense numbers of beavers 
found there. Disappointment, however, awaited them, 
for other trappers had preceded them, and made such 
thorough work that it was useless for the last arrivals to 
unload and set their traps. 

The party visited other sections but in every instance 
they appeared to be '< a day too late for the fair:" the 
beaver runs had been worked so thoroughly by others 
that it was useless for them to expect success. 

The beaver, as the reader probably knows, aside fron\ 
its great value in producing fur and perfume, possesses g 
most wonderful instinct. They live in communities and 
prefer to build their houses by small clear rivers and 
creeks or close to springs. Sometimes they are found on 
the banks of lakes. 

The dams which they construct with the skill of a pro- 
fessional civil engineer, are built for the purpose of mak- 
ing sure of a full supply of water at all times and seasons. 
These dams are composed of stones, mud and tree 
branches, the base being ten or twelve feet in thickness 
sloping gradually upward to the summit. 

In building their dams, the beaver does not thrust 
the ends of the stakes into the bed of the river, but lays 
them down horizontally, holding them in place by piling 



46 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

mud and stones upon them. The logs which compose 
the dams are mostly from six to eight inches in diameter, 
though some have been found nearly two feet through. 
The enormous number of such logs used may be imag- 
ined perhaps, when the ponderous character of the dams 
is remembered, and when it is stated that some of them 
are more than an eighth of a mile wide. Every log, after 
being gnawed off the proper length, is stripped of its 
bark which is stored away for use as food during the 
winter. 

The lodges of the beavers are composed principally of 
mud, moss and branches, circular in shape, the space 
within being seven feet in width and about half as high. 
The walls are so thick that on the outside the correspond- 
ing dimensions are nearly three times as great as within. 
The roof is finished off with a thick layer of mud, laid on 
with wonderful smoothness and renewed every year. 
The severe frosts of winter freeze the lodge into such a 
solid structure that the beaver is safe against the wolver- 
ine, which is unable to break through the wall, resem- 
bling the adobe structures found in Mexico and the 
South-west. Even the trapper who attempts to demolish 
one of the structures finds it tiresome labor, even with 
the help of iron implements. 

The beavers excavate a ditch around their lodges too 
deep to be frozen. Into this opens all their dwellings, the 
door being far below the surface, so that free ingress and 
egress are secured. 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 47 

The half-dozen beavers occupying a lodge arrange 
their beds against the wall, each separate from the 
other, while the centre of the chamber is unoccupied. 
During summer they secure their stock of food by gnaw- 
ing down hundreds of trees the trunks or limbs of whicn 
are sunk and fastened in some peculiar manner to the 
bottom of the stream. During the winter when the 
beaver feels hungry, he dives down, brings up one of the 
logs, drags it to a suitable spot and nibbles off the bark. 

It is impossible fully to understand how this remarka- 
ble animal does its work, for as it never toils in the day 
time, it is out of the power of any one to watch its 
method. 

The peculiar odoriferous substance, secreted in two 
glandular sacs near the root of the tail, is " castoreum," 
more generally known as *' bark-stone " among the trap- 
pers. The odor is powerful and is so attractive to the 
animals themselves, that the trapper has only to smear 
some of it near the trap which is hidden under water. 
Any beaver which catches the scent, is sure to hasten to 
the spot and is almost certain to be caught in the trap. 



CHAPTER VIII. 

Carson and two Companions set out on a Trapping Expedition of 
Their Own— They Meet With Great Success — Is Engaged by- 
Captain Lee— Carson's Pursuit of an Indian Thief 

Kit Carson finally grew tired of wandering over the 

country without gaining sight of a beaver. He proposed 

to two of his companions that they start on a private 

• expedition of their own. They were as disgusted as he 

and eagerly agreed to the proposition. 

The employers of the men commended the enterprise 
of the little company and gave them their best wishes. 
Cordial farewells were exchanged all around, and Kit and 
his comrades left the camp on their perilous errand. 

On this occasion, as on innumerable other ones, Car- 
son showed most excellent judgment. His scheme was 
to keep entirely to the streams never once venturing 
upon the plains. Several advantages were likely to flow 
from this course. During the summer season the moun- 
tain Indians generally placed their woman and children 
in charge of the old men and a few warriors and came 
down from their retreats to engage in hunting bison or 
in marching on the war path. Occasionally they are at 
peace with the Indians of the plains, which was a bad 
thing for the Mexican settlements, for they left a track of 
desolation among them. 

48 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 49 

Few of the trappers ventured far into the mountains, 
where game was abundant, so that Carson was confident 
of finding plenty of beavers. In this he was not mis- 
taken. The fur bearing animals seemed to be overrun- 
ing the country, while the Indians acted not only as if 
unaware of the fact but as if entirely ignorant of the 
little party of visitors, who, making hay while the sun 
shines, were not long in finding themselves with as large 
a supply as they could carry home. 

This was the ordeal more to be dreaded than all the 
others. While on their way to the beaver-runs, they had 
nothing to do beyond taking care of themselves ; but 
now their valuable peltries were liable to be captured by 
the Indians, who could compel their abandmonment by 
pressing the owners hard. 

But extreme and altogether unexpected good fortune 
attended them, and they reached Tacs, without receiving 
a scratch or losing a fur. They found on arriving at 
that quaint town, that there was great demand for pel- 
tries and prices were correspondingly high. They sold 
out their stock for a very liberal price, and Kit's friends, 
despite his advice, went on a carousal which soon squan- 
dered all their hard-earned wages. Kit himself, how- 
ever, had not lost the lesson he learned under somewhat 
similiar circumstances, and he laid away his funds, against 
the proverbial rainy day. 

By this time the character of Carson was fairly formed. 
He was resolute, self-reliant, sober, thoughtful, cool- 
4 



50 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

headed, wonderfully quick to grasp all the points of a 
situation, chivalrous, agile as a panther, a perfect master 
of woodcraft, and withal, charmingly modest. 

While Carson was in Taos, waiting for some favorable 
opening to present itself, he met Captain Lee, formerly 
of the United States Army, but who was then a member 
of the firm of Bent & St. Vrain, engaged for so many 
years in furnishing supplies to those who visited the 
mountains and plains. Captain Lee at that time was 
thus employed and knowing the value of a man like Car- 
son, he made him so liberal an offer that he accepted it 
on the spot. 

In the Autumn of 1832, with a train of mules loaded 
with such goods as were needed by trappers, Captain 
Lee, Carson and a number of men started northward to 
find their purchasers. They followed the well-worn mule 
path leading from New Mexico to California and which 
had been known for years as the *' Old Spanish Trail." 

They reached White River without mishap, and made 
their way down it until Green River was forded, when 
they struck across the country to Winty River, where 
they came upon a party of twenty hunters, who were 
engaged in trading and trapping as opportunity offered. 
They affiliated at once, for there is something in the pres- 
ence of a common danger which draws men closely 
together. 

The weather became very cold and snow began to 
fall. It was decided, therefore, to go into winter quarters 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 5 1 

near the mouth of Winty River. There they erected 
skin lodges, such as are used by many tribes of Ameri- 
can Indians, and were content to wait the coming of 
spring. 

The skill and address of Carson seemed to create a call 
for his services, no matter where he happened to be, and 
it was not long before he became involved in a most 
remarkable adventure. 

Among the employes of the other party, was a shrewd 
civilized Indian, who was held in high regard by the 
whites on account of his native keenness, and who stood 
well in the confidence of his employer ; but one day he 
disappeared, simultaneously with several of the very best 
horses. The circumstances were such that there could 
be no doubt the two occurrences were inseparably con- 
nected. 

The loss was too serious to be borne, and the angered 
leader of the other company (though he had not the 
least claim upon young Carson), appealed to him to help 
him to recover his property. Carson said he was per- 
fectly willing, provided Captain Lee would give his con- 
sent, and as the Captain was more willing to help his 
friend, he directed Carson to do as he saw fit. 

The matchless hunter made sure his weapons were in 
the best order, and, mounting one of the fleetest horses 
in camp, he waved a merry farewell to his friends and 
galloped off. He had not ridden far when he turned off 
toward an Indian village, whose people were on friendly 



52 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

terms with the hunters, and, riding directly among the red 
men, whose Hngo he understood, he asked for one of their 
bravest warriors to join him in hunting down a CaUfor- 
nia Indian that had run off with their best horses. 

Such a request coming from any other hunter would 
have received little notice ; but those dasky barbarians 
not only knew Carson by name, but looked upon him as 
the greatest white warrior the\' had ever seen. He could 
have secured a score of braves had lie wanted them, but 
he desired only one — a sinew}% daring fellow whom he 
knew could be relied on in any emergency. This 
Indian required no more time than Carson himself to 
make ready, and, shortly after Kit's arrival in the village, 
he rode forth again with his faithful friend at his elbow. 

It was impossible for the thief to conceal the trail of 
the stolen horses and he made no attempt to do so. A 
slight examination showed the pursuers that it led down 
the Green River, the general course being such that Car- 
son was confident the thief was making for California — 
a long distance away. 

As the fugitive was well mounted and all his horses 
were fleet, and as he must have been quite certain he 
would be pursued, he lost no time on the road. The 
trail showed he was going at a full gallop, and, under the 
most favorable circumstances, the chase was sure to be a 
long one. 



CHAPTER IX. 

A Hot Pursuit — An Unexpected Calamity — Carson Continues the 

Chase Alone — The Result. 

Everything now depended on speed. Not only was 
the dusky thief pushing his animals to the utmost, but 
Kit Carson knew he would give them little rest night or 
day. He was familiar with the route to California and 
the pursuit would be no child's play. 

There could be no doubt, however, of the destination 
of the red-skin, and Carson and his brave warrior were 
equally persistent with their horses. The ground flew 
beneath their hoofs. Across the stretch of prairie, along 
the bank of the rushing streams, around the rocks, over 
mountains, through torrents, they forced their way, with 
no thought of turning back or checking the speed of their 
animals. Occasionally the bright eyes of the pursuers 
glanced at the ground in front, when the displaced gravel 
or the indentation in the soft earth showed they had not 
lost the trail. 

In this headlong fashion the friends galloped forward 
until they had placed a full hundred miles behind them. 
They were a long distance from home and camp, but in 
spite of the speed of the fugitive, Carson was confident 
they had gained considerably upon him. If everything 
went well, they ought to catch sight of him on the mor* 

53 



54 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

row. At this juncture, when the prospect was so 
encouraging, an unlooked for calamity occurred. 

Carson's steed stood the great strain admirably, but 
the one bestrode by the Indian succumbed. He sud- 
denly slackened his pace, staggered and trembled so 
violently, that, when the warrior leaped from his back, 
he saw he was fearfully ill. If he did not die, he would 
not recover for hours and even then could not be forced 
hard. 

Carson contemplated the situation with dismay. He 
had not counted on anything like this, and the help of 
the Indian was beyond all price to him. He was 
unusually strong, active and experienced, and would not 
hesitate to attack any person single handed. 

Seeing the condition of the exhausted steed. Kit pro- 
posed to his dusky companion that he should abandon 
him and continue the pursuit on foot, but the brave shook 
his head. He was equal to the exploit of running ten or 
twenty miles at a high pace, but a great deal more was 
likely to be required and he needed all his powers when 
the shock of the battle should come. He not only 
refused to continue the chase, but, knowing the character 
of the thief, tried to dissuade Carson from going further. 
They had certainly done all that could be asked of them 
and no one could find fault if, in the face of such diffi- 
culty, they should withdraw and return to their friends. 

" No," said Carson, " I have set out to recover those 
horses and nothing shall turn me back. I am sorry to 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 55 

Ios«^ you, but it can't be helped ; so good bye and good 
luck attend you," 

And putting spurs to his steed, he dashed over the 
trail Y/ith compressed lips and flashing eye, determined 
on running do^^u the fugitive if he had to follow him to 
the ba'ik of tJie Pacific itself. This single act of the 
famou'^y niou'jljiineer shows his character in its true light 

In the f-/- A place, it must be remembered that Kit 
Carson -"/pJ a man of slight figure and was never noted 
for his plrength. Many of his companions were much 
more powerful, though none was so quick and active in 
his movements. His wonderful success lay in his cool- 
ness, agility, skill and bravery, which nev^er " overleaped 
itself." As we have stated, he was below the medium 
stature, and never could have attained a tithe of his 
renown, had his muscular strength formed a necessary 
part of his requirements. 

On the other hand, the Indian thief whom he was 
pursuing, was exceptionally powerful, athletic and one 
of the most desperate men on the whole frontier. He 
cared nothing for Carson, nor for any single member of 
the company he had left. He would expect pursuit and 
would be on the watch for it. Whenever he caught 
sight of those who were seeking him, he would not 
abandon the horses and flee. Far from it : he would 
stand his ground, and if his booty should be wrested 
from him the men who did it would be compelled to tlic 
*^;:rcest kind of fight. He v/ould not run from tlie 



56 LIFE OF KIT CARSGN. 

attack of two or three persons : much less from one of 
the most insignificant men in the entire company. 

The course of Carson illustrated another marked feat- 
ure of his character — that of loyalty to his friends and 
resolution in carrying through any task he undertook. 
Where scarcely one man in a multitude would have 
pushed forward, he advanced without hesitation. He 
deliberately resolved to attack a fierce criminal who was 
as fully armed as he, as daring and perfect in his knowl- 
edge of woodcraft, and much his superior in strength. 

Carson had proven the mettle of his steed, and he now 
showed him no mercy. The trail indicated he was gain- 
ing rapidly and he was anxious to force matters to an 
issue before night. Among the horses the Indian was 
running off, were one or two whose endurance was less 
than the others. Their tardiness moderated the pace of 
the rest, and thus gave Kit a chance of lessening the dis- 
tance between him and the fugitive. 

At the end of the ten miles he scanned the ground in 
front, but nothing was seen of the thief or his horses ; but 
the hoof prints were fresh and the scout knew he was 
closer to him than at any time since the chase began. 
The flanks of his steed shone with perspiration and froth, 
but it would not do to lag now. The lips were com- 
pressed and the gray eye flashed fire as before. 

Ten more miles were speedily thrown behind him, and 
he knew he was not far from the dusky desperado, who 
doubtless was continually glancing backward in quest cf 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 57 

pursuers ; but the keen vision which sweot around every 
portion of the visible horizon, discovered no sign of the 
thief. 

Carson anticipated some attempt on the part of the 
fugitive to confuse pursuit and he, therefore, watched the 
hoof prints more closely than ever. The eagle eye con- 
tinually glanced from the ground to the country in front, 
and then to the right and left. Nothing escaped his 
vision, but when his foamy steed had thundered over 
another ten miles the fugitive was still beyond sight. 

"He can't be far off," was the thought of Carson, "I'm 
bound to overtake him before long " 

At that moment, he caught sight of the Indian gallop- 
ing leisurely forward, amid the stolen horses. The cun- 
ning savage, as the scout had suspected, was constantly 
on the alert, and detected Carson the same moment that 
he himself was discovered. Quick as a flash, he leaped 
from the back of his horses and started on a swift run 
for a clump of trees between him and his pursuer. The 
latter understood his purpose on tne instant. If the 
Indian could secure the shelter of the grove, he would 
have his enemy at his mercy; for not only would he be 
able to protect his body, while loading and firing, but 
Carson himself, being in an open space, would be with- 
out the slightest protection against his deadly aim. 

Carson cocked his rifle and driving his spurs into the 
flanks of his high-spirited steed, charged at full speed for 



58 UFE OF KIT CARSON. 

the same shelter. Whoever should reach it first would 
be the master. 

The Indian had much less distance to run, and was as 
fleet of foot as a deer. He bounded forward with such 
tremendous strides, that while the horseman was still 
some distance away, he plunged in among the trees ; but 
for the last few seconds the foes had approached each 
other at a terrific pace, a result that was not only inevi- 
table, but desirable, to the pursuer. 

The very second the savage arrived on the margin of 
the grove, he made a leap for the nearest tree from 
behind which he meant to shoot his enemy; but in the 
very act of doing so, he was smitten by his bullet. With- 
out checking his animal in the slightest, Carson had 
aimed and fired. 

The death-screech of the savage rang out, as he leaped 
in the air and tumbled prostrate to the earth, killed by 
the shot that was unerring in its accuracy. The Indian 
himself was so near firing his gun, that his piece was also 
discharged, the ball whizzing harmlessly above the head 
of his pursuer. A couple of seconds delay on the part 
of Carson must have proved fatal to him, for the savage 
was a good marksman, and was standing still, with such 
a brief space intervening, that he could not have missed. 
It is hard to conceive of any escape more narrow than 
that of the daring mountaineer. 



CHAPTER X. 

Carson Returns with the Recovered Property — journey to Snake 
River — Starts on a Trapping Expedition witii I'hree Compan- 
ions — Carson's Stirring Adventure with Two Grizzly Bears,. 

Carson gathered the horses together and set out oi^ 
his return. The distance was considerable and he was 
compelled to encamp more than once on the road, while 
he was continually exposed to attack from Indians, but 
with that remarkable skill and foresight which distin- 
guished him when a boy, he reached home without the 
slightest mishap and turned over the recovered animals 
to their owner. 

Some days later, several trappers entered camp with 
the statement that a large body of hunters were on Snake 
River, a fortnight's journey distant. Captain Lee at once 
set out with his men and found the company who gave 
them a warm welcome. They purchased all the supplies 
Captain Lee had for sale, and then, as Carson's engage- 
ment with the Captain was ended, he attached himself ta 
the other body. He remained, however, only a few 
weeks, for he saw there were so many that they could 
never take enough peltries to bring much money to the- 
individual members. He decided to do as he had done 
before — arrange an expedition of his own. He had but 
to make known his intentions, when he had more appli* 

59 



€o UFE OF KIT CARSON, 

cants than he could accept. He selected three, who it is 
meedless to say had no superiors m the whole party. 
'The little company then turned the heads of their horses 
'ioward Laramie River. 

At that day, the section abounded with beaver, and 
although the summer is not the time when their fur is in 
the best condition, the party trapped on the stream and 
its tributaries until cold weather set in. They met with 
far greater success, than could have come to them had 
nihey stayed with the principal company of trappers. 
But they had no wish to spend the winter alone in the 
anountains and gathering their stock together, they set 
v^ut to rejoin their old companions. 

'One day, after they had gone into camp, Carson, leav- 
ing his horse in charge of his friends, set out on foot to 
Ihunt some game for their evening meal. They had seen 
^o signs of Indians, though they never forgot to be on 
?their guard against them. Game was not very abundant 
mnd Carson was obliged to go a long ways before he 
caught sight of some elk grazing on the side of a hill. 
Well aware of the difficulty of getting within gunshot of 
the timid animals, the hunter advanced by a circuitous 
-course toward a clump of trees, which would give him 
the needed shelter ; but while creeping toward the point 
■lie had fixed upon as the one from which to fire, the 
•creatures scented danger and began moving off. This 
^-compelled him to fire at long range, but he was success- 
i!ul and brought down the finest of the group. 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 6i 

The smoke was curling upward from the rifle of Carson^ 
when he was startled by a tremendous crashing beside 
him, and, turning his head, he saw two enormous grizzly 
bears making for him at full speed. They were infuriated 
at this invasion of their home, and were evidently resolved 
on teaching the hunter better manners by making their 
supper upon him. 

Carson had no time to reload his gun •. had it been 
given him he would have made short work of one of the 
brutes at least, but as it was, he was deprived of even that 
privilege. Fortunate indeed would he be if he could 
escape their fury. 

The grizzly bear is the most dreaded animal found on 
this continent. He does not seem to feel the slightest 
iear of the hunter, no matter whether armed or not, and,,, 
while other beasts are disposed to give rnan a wide berths 
old "Ephriam," as the frontiersmen call him, always: 
seems eager to attack him. His tenacity of life is extra- 
ordinary. Unless pierced in the head or heart, he will 
continue his struggles after a dozen or score of rifle balls. 
have been buried in his body. So terrible is the grizzly^ 
bear, that an Indian can be given no higher honor than 
the privilege of wearing a necklace made from his claws^ 
— ^that distinction being permitted only to those whc^ 
have slain one of the animals in single-handed combat. 

No one understood the nature of these beasts better 
than Kit Carson and he knew that if either of the ani- 
mals once got his claws upon him, there would not be 



^2 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

the faintest chance of escape. The only thing therefore 
that could be done was to run. 

There were not wanting men who were fleeter of foot 
than Carson, but few could have overtaken him when he 
made for the trees on which all his hopes depended. 
Like the blockade runner, closely pursued by the man of 
war, he threw overboard all the cargo that could impede 
liis speed. His long, heavy rifle was flung aside, and the 
short legs of the trapper doubled under him with amazing 
iquickness as he strove as never before to reach the grove. 

Fortunately the latter was not far off, and, though the 
fierce beasts gained rapidly upon him, Carson arrived 
imong the timber a few steps in advance. He had no 
time even to select the tree, else he would have chosen a 
different one, but making a flying leap, he grasped the 
lowermost limb and swung upward, at the moment the 
foremost grizzly was beneath him. So close in truth was 
liis pursuer that the hunter distinctly felt the sweeping 
blow of his paw aimed at the leg which whisked beyond 
liis reach just in the nick of time. 

But the danger was not over by any means. The 
enthusiastic style in which the bears entered into the pro- 
ceedings proved they did not mean that any trifles should 
stop them. They were able to climb the tree which sup- 
ported Carson, and he did not lose sight of the fact 
Whipping out his hunting knife, he hurriedly cut oft' a 
•short thick branch and trimmed it into a shape that would 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 65 

have made a most excellent shillaleh for a native of the 
Green Isle. 

He had hardly done so, when the heads of the bruins 
were thrust upward almost against his feet. Carson 
grasped the club with both hands and raising it above 
his shoulders brought it down with all his might upon the 
nose of the foremost. The brute sniffed with pain, threw 
up his head and drew back a few inches — just enough to 
place the other nose in front. At that instant, a resound- 
ing whack landed on the rubber snout and the second 
bear must have felt a twinge all through his body. 

Though each blow caused the recipient to recoil, yet 
he instantly returned, so that Carson was kept busy 
pounding the noses as if he was an old fashioned farmer 
threshing wheat with a flail. 

It was a question with Carson which would last the 
longer — the club or the snouts, but in the hope of getting 
beyond their reach, he climbed to the topmost bough, 
where he crouched into the smallest possible space. It 
was idle, however, to hope they would overlook him, for 
they pushed on up the tree which swayed with their 
weight. 

The nose of the grizzly bear is one of the most sensi- 
tive portions of his body, and the vigorous thumps which 
the hunter brought down upon them, brought tears of 
pain to their eyes. But while they suffered, they were 
roused to fury by the repeated rebuffs, and seemed all the 



64 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

more set on craunching the flesh and bones of the insig- 
nificant creature who defied them. 

It must have been exasperating beyond imagination to 
the gigantic beasts, who feared neither man nor animal to 
find themselves repeatedly baffled by a miserable being 
whom they could rend to pieces with one blow of their 
paws, provided they could approach nigh enough to 
reach him. 

They came up again and again ; they would draw back 
-SO as to avoid those stinging strokes, sniff, growl and 
push upward, more eager than ever to clutch the poor 
fellow, who was compressing himself between the limb 
and the trunk, and raining his blows with the persistency 
of a pugilist. 

They were finally forced to desist for a few minutes ii? 
-order to give their snouts time to regain their tone. The 
ibulky creatures looked at each other and seemed to say, 
-^* That's a mighty queer customer up there ; he doesn't 
fight fairly, but we'll fetch him yet." 

Once more and for the last time, they returned to the 
■charge, but the plucky scout was awaiting them, and his 
<\uh whizzed through the air like the piston rod of a steam 
engine. The grizzlies found it more that they could 
stand, and tumbling back to solid earth they gave up the 
-contract in disgust. Carson tarried where he was until 
they were beyond sight, when he descended and hastily 
caught up and re-loaded his rifle, having escaped, as he 
always declared, by the narrowest chance of all his life. 



CHAPTER XI. 

On the Green River — In the Blackfoot Country — The Blackfeet-« 
An Unwelcome Visit — The Pursuit and Parley — Dissolution of, 
the Peace Congress. 

The day was drawing to a close when Carson set out 
for camp, which was not reached until after dark. His. 
companions did not feel any special alarm over his con- 
tinued absence, for the good reason that they were confi- 
dent he could take care of himself, no matter in what; 
labyrinth of peril he might become involved. 

It was too late to send for the carcase of the elk and' 
more than likely it had already been devoured by wolves„ 
So the trappers made their breakfast on one of the 
beavers found in their traps, and went into camp to await 
the arrival of the main body of trappers, which Carsore 
was confident would come that way. Some days later 
they put in an appearance, and the company proceeded 
to the general rendezvous on Green River, where were 
found assembled the principal trappers of the Rocky- 
Mountains. There were fully two hundred divided into? 
two camps. What a history could have been written 
from the thrilling experiences of such a body of men! 

They had gathered at the rendezvous to buy what sup- 
plies they needed and to dispose of their peltries. It 
was several weeks before the negotiations were over^. 

5 65 



66 LIFE CF KIT CARSON. 

when the assemblage broke up into smaller companies 
which started for their destinations hundreds of miles 
apart. 

Carson joined a party numbering about fifty who 
intended to trap near the headwaters of the Missouri. 
Hundreds of beavers had been taken in that section, but 
poor success went with the large band of which Carson 
was a member. That was bad enough, but they were in 
a neighborhood which, it may be said, was the very 
heart of the Blackfoot country, and those hostiles were 
never more active and vigilant in their warfare against 
the invaders. 

The Blackfeet or Satsika to day, are the most westerly 
tribe of the Algonquin family of Indians, extending from 
the Hudson Bay to the Missouri and Yellowstone. They 
number over 12,000 warriors about equally divided 
between Montana and British America. They have 
always been a daring and warlike people, and the early 
explorers of the Far West probably met with more 
trouble from them than from any other tribe on the con- 
tinent. 

Carson and his companions ran in difficulty at once. 
The Blackfeet seemed to swarm through the woods, and 
sent in their treacherous shots from the most unexpected 
quarters. Whoever made the round of the traps in the 
morning was almost certain to be fired upon. Matters 
became so bad that after a time the trappers decided to 
leave the country. Accordingly they made their way to 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 6/ 

the Big Snake River where they went into quarters 
for the winter. Even there they were not safe from 
molestation at the hands of their old enemies the Black - 
feet. 

One night, when there was no moon or stars, a band 
of warriors stole into camp and ran off about twenty of 
the best horses. This outrage touched the hunters in the 
most sensitive part of their nature, and the truth no 
sooner became known than they unanimously agreed that 
the animals not only should be recovered but the auda- 
cious aggressors should be chastised. 

Twelve men were selected for the most difficult and 
dangerous task and need we give the name of the youth 
who was made the leader ? 

With his usual promptness, Carson took the trail which 
was followed without trouble over the snow. The Black- 
feet had reason to fear some such demonstration, and 
they hurried off with such speed that they were not over- 
taken until fifty miles from camp. 

The situation was a novel one. The Indians had come 
to a halt and the horses were grazing on the side of a 
hill where the wind had blown away the snow. The 
Blackfeet had on snow-shoes which gave them an advant- 
age over the trappers. The latter galloped in the direc- 
tion of their horses, the moment they caught sight of 
them. The Blackfeet fired at the trappers, who returned 
a scattering volley but no one was hurt on either side. 
Then followed skirmishing and manceuvering for several 



68 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

minutes, without either party gaining advantage. Finally 
the Blackfeet asked for a parley to which the trapperc 
assented. 

In accordance with the usual custom, one of the Indians 
advanced to a point midway between the two parties and 
halted. At the same time, one of the trappers went for 
ward, the rest of the whites and red men keeping their 
distance and watching them. 

The Blackfoot opened business by what might be 
termed an apology which was no more genuine than 
many made by his civilized brethren under somewhaf 
similar circumstances. He expressed great surprise tc 
learn that the horses belonged to their good friends the 
trappers. They had supposed all along that they were 
the property of the Snake Indians whom the Blackfeet 
considered it their duty to despoil on every suitable occa- 
sion. 

This glaring misrepresentation did not deceive the man 
who was acting as spokesman for his side. By way of 
reply, he asked that if such was the case, why had not 
the Blackfeet come forward on discovering their mistake, 
greeted their white brothers as friends and returned their 
property to them. 

The replies were evasive and the hunters became con- 
vinced that the Indians were seeking to gain time for 
some sinister purpose ; but a full parley having been 
agreed upon, both parties left their guns behind and 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 69 

advanced to where their representatives v^^ere holding 
their interview. 

The Blackfeet still professed the most ardent friendship, 
and as an emphatic token of the same, produced the cal- 
umet and began smoking the pipe of peace. The tobacco 
having been lit, each took several whiffs and then passed 
it to his neighbor, who did the same until the round was 
completed. This solemn pledge of good will having been 
exchanged, the convention or peace congress was opened 
as may be said, in due and ancient form. 

Carson and his companions were distrustful from the 
start, though it was hard for them to decide the meaning 
of the prolonged negotiations, since no one could see 
what the Blackfeet were to gain by such a course. They 
may have hoped to deceive the hunters and throw them 
off their guard, but, if such was the case, they failed. 

First of all, the leading warriors indulged in several 
long speeches which were without point, but what was 
said in reply could admit of no doubt as to its meaning. 
The trappers understood the Blackfoot tongue well 
enough to make their responses models in the way of 
brevity and force. They said that it was idle to talk of 
friendship or peace until the stolen property was returned 
to its owners. The Indians still attempted to postpone 
or evade, but the complainants were in no mood for 
trifling and they repeated their declaration more posi- 
tively than before. 

The Blackfeet were much more numerous than the 



70 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

whites, and confident of their strength, began to bluster 
and to assert that whatever they did would be dictated 
by their own wishes and not by any fear of their visitors. 
Whether they desired to avoid a fight or not can only be 
conjectured, but they finally sent back to v/here the horses 
were tethered and caused five of the worst to be picked 
out and brought forward. 

When the trappers inquired the meaning of this pro- 
ceeding, the Indians said that it was the best they could 
do and the hunters must be content. 

This last insult was the spark which exploded the 
magazine. Instantly every white man ran for his gun, 
and the Blackfeet did the same. A few seconds after 
they wheeled about and the sangumary fight began. 

Kit Carson and a companion were the first to obtain 
their guns and as a consequence they led the advance. 
Each selected a warrior who was partially hidden by the 
trunk of a tree. Carson was in the act of firing, when 
he observed that his friend was examining the lock of his 
gun all unmindful of the fact that one of the Blackfeet 
had levelled his weapon directly at his breast. On the 
instant, Kit changed his aim and shot the savage dead, 
thereby saving the life of his friend, who could not have 
escaped had the weapon of his adversary been dis- 
charged. 



CHAPTER XII. 

Carson Badly Wounded — A Drawn Battle — An Ineffectual Pur« 
suit — The Summer Rendezvous — Carson's Duel. 

This act of chivalry on the part of Carson simply 
transferred the peril of his friend to himself, for the 
Indian whom he had selected for his target was carefully 
sighting at him, at the very moment the gun was dis- 
charged. Kit saw what was coming and bounded to one 
side in the hope of dodging the bullet. Quick as he was, 
however, he did not entirely succeed, though the act doubt- 
less saved his life. The ball from the rifle of his adversary 
grazed his neck and buried itself in his shoulder, shat- 
tering the head of one of the bones. 

Carson though badly hurt, did not fall or retreat. On 
the contrary, he tried desperately to reload his gun, but 
found it impossible to raise his arm. He was hors de 
combat beyond all question, and bleeding so fast that his 
weakness compelled him to lie down on the ground while 
the conflict went on about him. 

The fight was very hot for a time, the Result being 
what may be called a drawn battle, with the advantage 
inclining to the side of the Indians. The trappers fell 
back to the safest place that presented itself and went 
into camp. They dared not start a fire, for they knew it 

n 



72 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

would bring an attack from the Indians, but wrapping 
their saddle blankets around them, they bore the intense 
cold as best they could. 

The sufferings of Carson were great. His wounds con- 
tinued bleeding and froze upon the dressings, which were 
of the most primitive character. And yet not once 
through those hours of anguish did he utter a word of 
complaint. Many a strong man would have cried out in 
his agony, but one might have sat within arm's length 
of the mountaineer without knowing he was hurt at all. 

More than that, Carson took his part in the council 
which was held in the cold and darkness. The conclu- 
sion reached was that the party of trappers were not 
strong enough to pursue the Blackfeet, and the proper 
course to pursue was to rejoin the main body and report 
what had been done. It would then be time enough to 
decide upon their future action. 

When this programme was carried out, a larger party 
of hunters under the lead of an experienced mountaineer 
resumed the pursuit; but nothing could be found of the 
savages. They had utilized the grace allowed them so 
well that it was impossible to overtake or trace them, and 
the indignant trappers were obliged to submit to their 
loss. 

The severe cold moderated, and, as spring was close at 
hand the hunters pushed their trapping operations along 
the Green and Snake Rivers, meeting with unbounded 
success. They gathered more peltries than they had 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 73 

dared to hope for, and when warm weather approached, 
went into quarters where they remained until the follow- 
ing fall, a party of traders having brought them all the 
supplies they needed. 

The rugged constitution of Carson and his temperate 
habits caused him speedily to recover from his severe 
wound. He again became the active, vigilant, keen- 
witted guide and hunter who was looked up to by all as 
the most consummate master of woodcraft that had ever 
been known in the west. 

Such a large party as were gathered at the summer 
rendezvous was certain to include many varieties of 
people. The frank, brave and open-hearted, the sly and 
treacherous, the considerate and courteous, the quarrel- 
some and overbearing — indeed the temperaments of the 
individuals composing the company were as varied as it 
is possible to imagine. 

Among them was a powerful Frenchman known as 
Captain Shunan. He had won his title by hard fighting, 
possessed a magnificent physique, was brave and skilled 
in the use of arms, and was the most quarrelsome indi- 
vidual in camp. It is impossible to picture a more iras- 
cible and disagreeable personage than Captain Shunan, 
who appeared to spend all his spare time in trying to 
provoke quarrels with those around him. Sometimes he 
succeeded, but more often his insolence was submitted to 
by men as brave as he, but who wished to avoid trouble 
with him. 



74 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

The activity and strength of the Frenchman were sa 
great that a skilful pugilist would have found difficulty in 
handling him. The only ground upon which he could 
be met with anything like fairness was where fire arms 
were used. 

On one of these occasions, the bully became unbear- 
able in his behavior. He knocked down several weak 
and inoffensive persons, and swaggered back and forth 
through camp, boasting that he could trounce any one 
there. In the midst of his bluster, Carson walked up in 
front of him and said in a voice loud enough to be heard 
by those around : 

"Captain Shunan, there are plenty here who can easily 
chastise you, but they prefer to submit to your impudence 
for the sake of peace : however, we have had enough and 
now I notify you to stop at once or I shall kill you! " 

These were astounding words, and, as may be supposed, 
when uttered by a man six inches shorter and many 
pounds lighter than the blustering Captain, they fairly 
took away his breath. Carson spoke in his quiet, soft 
voice, as though there was not the least cause for excite- 
ment; but those who knew him, noted the flash of his 
clear, gray eye aiiA understood his deadly earnestness. 

Captain Shunan was infuriated by the words of Carson. 
As soon as he could recover himself, he turned about and 
without speaking a word, walked to his quarters. Kit 
did not need be told what that meant. He did the same, 
walking to his own lodge, from which he speedily emerged 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 75 

holding a single- barrel pistol. He was so anxious to be 
on the ground in time, that he caught up the first weapon 
that presented itself. 

Almost at the same moment, Captain Shunan appeared 
with his rifle. Carson observed him, and, though he 
could have secured without difficulty a similar weapon, 
he did not do so. He was willing to give his burly antag- 
onist the advantage, if it should prove such. The other 
trappers as may be supposed, watched the actions of the 
two men with breathless interest. The quarrel had taken 
such a course that they were convinced that one or the 
other of the combatants would be killed. Captain Shu- 
nan had been so loud in his boasts that he did not dare 
swallow the insult, put on him by the fragile Kit Carson. 
Had he done so, he would have been hooted out of camp 
and probably lynched. 

As for Kit, his courage was beyond suspicion. He 
feared no man and was sure to acquit himself creditably 
no matter in what circumstances he was placed. He 
was the most popular member of the large company, 
while his antagonist was the most detested; but the love 
of fair play was such that no one would interfere, no mat- 
ter how great the need for doing so. 

The duellists, as they may be called, mounted each his 
horse and circling about the plain, speedily headed toward 
each other and dashed forward on a dead run. As they 
approached, they reined up and halted face to face, within 
arm's length. 



76 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

Looking his antagonist straight in the eye, Carson 

demanded : 

«• Are you looking for me ? '* 

<'No." 

<* Have you any business with me?*' 

"No," growled the savage Frenchman; but, while the 
words were in his mouth, brought his rifle to his shoulder, 
and, pointing it at the breast of Carson, pulled the trig- 
ger; but Kit expected some such treacherous act, and, 
before the gun could be fired, he threw up his pistol and 
discharged it as may be said, across the barrel of the 
leveled weapon. 

The ball broke the forearm of Captain Shunan, at the 
very moment he discharged his gun. The shock diverted 
the aim, so that the bullet grazed his scalp, inflicting a 
trifling wound; but the combatants were so close that 
the powder of the rifle scorched the face of the moun- 
taineer. 

Captain Shunan had been badly worsted, and was dis- 
abled for weeks afterward. He accepted his fate without 
complaint and was effectually cured of his overbearing 
manner toward his associates. 



CHAPTER XIII. 

On the Yellowstone — Repeated Disappointments — Carson Enters 
the Employ of a Hudson Bay Trader — Poor Success — A Trying 
Journey — Arrival at Fort Hall — The American Buffalo or 
Bison. 

With the approach of cool weather, preparations were 
made for the fall hunt. When all was ready, the trap- 
pers headed for the Yellowstone, which was reached 
without mishap, and they immediately set their traps. 
The country as a rule, was a good one for those valuable 
animals, but the visitors were disappointed to learn 
they were unusually scarce. 

When it became evident that it was useless to work on 
the Yellowstone, they gathered up their traps and made 
their way to the Big Horn, but, failing again, tried their 
fortunes on other rivers in that vicinity with no better 
results. 

It was while engaged in this discouraging work that 
they met a trader belonging to the Hudson Bay Com- 
pany. He had been pushing operations in every direc- 
tion, but the stories he told were of the same general 
tenor as those of the larger party. He had been as 
unsuccessful in the way of trade as they had been in 
catching the fur bearing animals. 

The Hudson Bay trader, however, was confident he 

77 



78 LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

could succeed where they had failed, and he made such 
liberal offers to Carson that he and several of his compan- 
ions accepted them on the spot. 

The first point which they visited was the Humboldt 
River, from which had come reports of the abundance of 
beavers. They began near the head waters of the stream, 
and carefully trapped down to the Great Basin. Meeting 
with only moderate success, they made their way to Big 
Snake River. After remaining there a considerable time, 
the party divided, the Hudson Bay trader and his friends 
going northward toward Fort Walla Walla, while Carson 
and the larger number set out for Fort Hall. 

The journey thither was one of the most distressing 
which Kit Carson ever undertook. The country through 
which most of the march led is one of the most dismal 
wastes on the American continent. Except in extent, a 
journey across it is similar to that of the parched cara- 
vans across the flaming sands of Sahara. Carson and his 
companions were accustomed to all manner of priva- 
tions, but more than once their endurance was tried to 
the utmost point. 

The trappers had gathered some nutritious roots upon 
which they managed to subsist for a time, but these soon 
gave out, and their situation grew desperate. When 
almost famishing they bled their mules and drank the 
warm current. They would have killed one of the ani- 
mals, but for the fact that they could not spare it, and, 
as there was no calculating how long the others would 



UFE OF KIT CARSON. 79 

last, they were afraid to take the step, which was likely 
to cripple them fatally. 

This strange source of nourishment served them for 
the time, but a repetition would endanger the lives of 
their animals, who were also in sore straits, inasmuch as 
the grass was not only poor but very scanty. Matters 
rapidly grew worse, and soon became so desperate that 
Carson said they would have to kill one of their animals 
or else lie down and perish themselves. 

At this trying crisis, they discovered a band of Indians 
approaching. Perhaps the hapless situation in which all 
wrere placed left no room for enmity, for the red men 
showed a friendly disposition. The high hopes of Carson 
and his friends were chilled when it was found that the 
Indians were in about as bad a plight as themselves. They 
had barely a mouthful of food among them, and, when 
besought to barter with the whites, they shook their 
heads. They had nothing to trade, and, while they felt 
no hostility toward the suffering trappers, they gave 
them to understand they could not afford any help at all. 

But Carson had fixed his eyes on a plump old horse, 
and never did a shrewd New Englander apply himself 
more persistently to secure a prize than did he. Kit's 
companions put forth all their powers of persuasion, but in 
vain, and they advised Carson that he was throwing 
away his efforts in attempting the impossible. 

But Carson succeeded, and when the equine was 
slaughtered and broiled, the trappers enjoyed one of the 



80 LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

most delicious feasts of their lives. They filled them- 
selves to repletion and felt that the enjoyment it brought 
was almost worth the suffering they had undergone to 
obtain it. 

When their strength was recruited, they resumed their 
journey and a few days later reached Fort Hall. There 
they found abundance of food and received a cordial wel- 
come. In a brief while they were as strong as ever and 
eager for any new enterprise. 

Hundreds of bisons were in the neighborhood of the 
fort and Carson and his friends slew them by the score. 
Indeed they kept the post well supplied with fresh meat 
as long as they remained there. 

The animal almost universally known as the " buffalo " 
is mis-called, his correct name being the "bison," of 
which there are droves numbering, it is said, as high as a 
hundred thousand. The flesh is held in high repute by 
hunters, and not only is nourishing but possesses the 
valuable quality of not cloying the appetite. The most 
delicate portion of the animal is the hump which gives 
the peculiar appearance to his back. That and the 
tongue and marrow-bones are frequently the only por- 
tions made use of by the hunter. 

The hide answers many useful purposes. All know 
how much a "buffalo robe" is appreciated in wintry 
weather by those exposed to cold. It serves to form the 
Indian's tents, his bed, parts of his dress and is sometimes 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 8 1 

made into a shield which will turn aside a rifle ball that 
does not strike it fairly. 

Hundreds of thousands of bisons are killed annually — 
myriads of them in pure wantonness — and yet enormous 
droves may be encountered to-day in many portions of 
the west, where it is hard for the experienced hunters to 
detect any decrease in their numbers. 

Some of the methods employed to slay bisons are 
cruel in the extreme. Many a time a large herd has been 
stampeded in the direction of some precipice. When 
the leaders found themselves on the edge, they have 
endeavored to recoil ; but there was no stemming the tide 
behind them. The terrified animals literally pushed the 
leaders over the rocks and then tumbled upon them. In 
a little while the gully or stream would be choked with 
the furiously struggling creatures and hundreds would be 
killed within a few minutes. 

The bison is as fond as the hog of wallowing in mud. 
When he comes upon a marshy spot he hes down and 
rolls about until he has worn out a large and shallow 
excavation into which the water oozes through the damp 
soil. Lying down again he rolls and turns until he is 
plastered from head to tail with mud. Though it cannot 
be said that it adds to his attractiveness, yet the coating 
no doubt serves well as a protection against the swarms 
of insects, which are sometimes terrible enough to sting 
animals to death. 

Those who have viewed the scraggy specimens in the 
5 



82 LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

menageries and zoological gardens would scarcely susped 
the activity and power of running possessed by them. 
The body is covered with such an abundance of hair that 
it looks larger than it really is, while the legs appear 
smaller. But the bison not only can run swiftly, but 
possesses great endurance. They will often dash at full 
speed over ground so rough that the more graceful horse 
will stumble. 

When wounded by the hunters, a bull will sometimes 
turn in desperation on his persecutor. Then, unless the 
horse is well trained, serious consequences are likely to 
follow. The plunging thrust of his stumpy horns per 
haps, rips open the steed, sending the rider flying over 
the back of the furious bison, who may turn upon him 
and slay him before he can escape. 

This rarely happens, however, the bison being a huge, 
cowardly creature which prefers to run rather than fight, 
and a hunt of the game in these days often takes the 
character of wholesale butchery in which no true sports- 
man would engage. 



CHAPTER XIV. 

A Strange Occurrence — Arrival of Friends — Carson Joins a Large 
Company — Trapping on the Yellowstone — The Blackfeet — A 
Dreadful Scourge— In Winter Quarters — The Friendly Crow 
Indians — Loss of Two Trappers— On the Head Waters of the 
Missouri. 

A SINGULAR occurrence took place a few nights after 
the return of Carson and his friends from an extended 
bison hunt. Their horses and mules were corraled near 
the post and a sentinel was on duty at all hours of the 
night to prevent the animals being stolen by the Indians 
who were always prowling through the neighborhood. 

In the dim uncertain light, just beyond midnight, the 
sentinel saw two men walk forward from the darkness, 
and without any appearance of haste, let down the bars 
and drive out the stock. Very naturally he concluded 
they were his friends who intended to take out the 
animals to graze. As there was nothing more for him to 
do, he sought his quarters, lay down and went to sleep. 

In the morning not a horse or a mule was to be found. 
The two individuals who had let down the bars and 
driven them out, were Blackfeet Indians, whose complete 
success was due to their amazing audacity. Had they 
shown any hesitation or haste, the suspicions of the 
sentinel would have been aroused, but when the trutk 

83 



84 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

became known, he was the most astonished man at the 
fort. 

The hunters were In a most sorry plight, for the Black- 
feet having made a clean sweep, they were without the 
means of pursuing and recovering their property. The 
parties who belonged at the fort had suffered a somewhat 
similar trick a short time before from the same tribe, so 
that only a few rickety horses remained in their posses- 
sion. 

Under the circumstances, the trappers were compelled 
to accept their misfortune with grim philosophy, and 
await the arrival of the rest of the party, who had 
promised to rejoin them after completing their business at 
Fort Walla Walla. 

Sure enough, a few weeks later, their friends appeared, 
and providentially indeed they brought with them an 
extra supply of excellent horses. The trappers were in 
overflowing spirits once more and soon started for the 
general rendezvous on Green River. 

Other trappers continued to arrive for a number of 
days, until about all that were expected had come in. 
Trade and barter then began and lasted some three 
weeks. The scene was picturesque and stirring and 
there was much hand shaking and pleasant wishes when 
the time came to separate. 

Kit Carson left the employ of the Hudson Bay Com- 
pany trader and attached himself to a party numbering 
fully a hundred who had determined to trap along the 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 85 

Yellowstone. It will be recalled that Carson once quit 
a company of trappers because it was too large, and it 
may be wondered why he should join one that was still 
more numerous. The reason he did so was because they 
were going into the very heart of the Blackfoot country. 
They had suffered so much from these daring marauders 
that they knew there would be no safety unless they went 
in strong force. Furthermore, the whites had so many old 
scores to settle with those redskins that they meant to 
invite attack from them. If the Blackfeet would only 
offer the opportunity for battle, the trappers meant to 
give them their fill. 

The formidable company arranged matters according 
to a system. Dividing into two equal parties, the duty 
of one was made to trap beaver, while the other furnished 
food and guarded the property. By this means, they 
would always be in shape to meet their sworn foes, while 
the real business which brought them into the country 
would not be neglected. 

The hunters were confident they would not be left 
alone very long. The Blackfeet would resent the inva- 
sion of their hunting grounds, and to say the least, would 
take measures to prevent the time hanging heavily on 
the hands of the pale faces. 

But, to the astonishment of the trappers, the days 
passed without bringing a glimpse of the savages. No 
hostile shot awoke the impressive stillness of the wilder- 
ness. Could it be the Blackfeet were seeking to throw 



S6 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

the whites off their guard ? Did they expect to induce a 
degree of carelessness that would enable the Blackfeet to 
gather their warriors and overwhelm them before they 
could rally ? 

It was not reasonable to suppose that the sagacious 
tribe held any such belief, for they could not have failed 
to know that any such hope was idle. 

But the explanation came one day by a party of 
friendly Crow Indians, who stated that the small pox 
was raging with such awful virulence among the Black- 
feet that they were dying by hundreds and thousands. 
Indeed, the havoc was so dreadful that there was reason 
to believe the whole tribe would be swept away. 

It would not be the first time that such an annihilation 
has taken place among the American Indians. The treat- 
ment required by that frightful disease is precisely the 
opposite of that which the red man in his ignorance pur- 
sues. When small pox breaks out among them, there- 
fore, the mortality becomes appalling. 

The Crow Indians affiliated with the trappers and 
guided them to a secluded valley, where they established 
themselves for the winter. The lodges were made 
strong and substantial, and it was fortunate that such 
precautions were taken, for the winter proved one of the 
severest known for many years. With their abundance 
of fuel, they kept enormous fires going and passed the 
days and nights in comparative comfort. 

But it was far different with their stock. During the 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. Sy 

severe weather, the only food that could be obtained wa^ 
the bark of the cottonwood. The inner lining of this is 
quite palatable to animals and in cases of extremity it 
affords temporary sustenance to men. With its help 
actual starvation was kept away, though it came very 
close. 

Unusual weather always brings unusual experience, 
and the intense cold developed an annoyance to the trap- 
pers upon which they had not counted. The difficulty 
of finding food was felt by the wild animals as well as 
domestic, and the bisons became desperate. When they 
saw the horses eating their fodder, they rushed forward 
and with lowered heads drove them away. If a horse oi 
mule refused, he was likely to be gored to death. 

The beasts finally became so numerous and fierce they 
would have killed all the stock of our friends if they had 
not kindled large fires and mounted constant guard. 
When the weather moderated those annoyances ended. 

Had any explorer of the west found his way to the 
secluded valley where the trappers were in winter quar- 
ters, he would have looked upon a striking scene. The 
Crow Indians and white men engaged in numerous ath- 
letic sports in friendly rivalry. They maintained the best 
of terms, and when the bisons departed, the strange com- 
munity enjoyed themselves far better than would be sup- 
posed. In truth where they were favored with such rug- 
ged health and where they had plenty of food and comfort- 
able quarters, it would have been remarkable had they 



88 LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

not been comparatively happy. They were not disturbed 
by political discussions or diversity of views on any pub* 
lie questions and were satisfied that the glorious Union 
was safe without any worriment on their part. 

When spring came, two of their party were sent to 
Fort Laramie to procure needed supplies. They went off 
well mounted and armed and were never heard of again. 
Somewhere in the recesses of the forest or mountain, the 
Blackfeet had probably killed them as they had done 
with many a brave man before, and as they have done 
with multitudes since. 

When it became certain the messengers had been 
slain, the company began the spring hunt without them. 
After trapping a brief while on the Yellowstone, they 
worked their way to the head waters of the Missouri 
They met with fair success and while engaged in that 
section, learned that the reports of the ravages of the 
small pox among the Blackfeet had been greatly exag- 
gerated. Instead of being decimated, the tribe had not 
suffered to any serious extent and were as strong and 
aggressive as ever. 

The trappers were not displeased to learn that such 
was the case, for they desired a settlement of accounts 
with them. Under such circumstances it was impossible 
that hostilities should be long delayed. 



CHAPTER XV. 

A Fierce Battle with the Blackfeet— Daring Act of Kit Canon- 
Arrival of the Reserves and End of the Battle. 

When near the head waters of the Missouri, the trap- 
pers discovered they were approaching the principal 
village of the Blackfeet. They determined to attack and 
punish the Indians who had caused them so much 
trouble and suffering ; but the whites were so numerous 
and powerful that extreme care was necessary to prevent 
their presence becoming known. 

When a number of miles from the village, the trappers 
came to a halt, and Kit Carson with several men was sent 
forward to reconnoitre. With extreme caution they 
made their way to a point from which they could over- 
look the village. 

A glance showed the Indians hurriedly making ready 
to move elsewhere. The shrewd red men had discovered 
their danger before their enemies caught sight of theme 
Carson galloped back as rapidly as he could, and made 
known what had been seen. A council was hastily called 
and about half the company advanced to give the Black- 
feet battle. Kit Carson, as might be supposed, was made 
the leader. The others were to guard the property, 
advance slowly and act as reserve, which could be hur- 
ried forward should it become necessary. 

89 



90 LIFE Op KIT CARSON. 

As agreed upon, Kit Carson galloped ahead, and the 
moment his men came in sight of the village, they 
dashed through it, killing a number of warriors. The 
others slowly fell back, fighting as they went, and with- 
out snowing the least panic. They received charge alter 
charge of the white men, with the steadiness of veterans. 
By and by the eagerness of the trappers reduced their 
ammunition and their firing became less destructive. The 
Blackfeet were quick to perceive the cause, and in turn 
they charged upon their assailants who became immedi- 
ately involved in a desperate hand-to-hand fight. It was 
then the small arms in the possession of the whites 
played their part. They were used with such effect, 
that the fierce warriors were compelled once more to 
retreat. 

But the courageous red men recoiled a short distance 
only, when they halted and then, with exultant yells, 
dashed toward the trappers, who despite all they could 
do, were forced back until it looked as if the whole party 
would be overwhelmed and destroyed. 

On this retreat, one of the horses belonging to the 
hunters was shot, and plunged to the ground so suddenly 
that his rider was caught before he could spring from the 
saddle. Several of the warriors, were quick to perceive 
his sore straits, and dashed toward him, eager to secure his 
scalp. The poor fellow struggled desperately, but could 
not extricate himself, and his expression of horrified 
despair when he perceived the fierce red men running a 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 9 1 

race with each other to reach him, would have melted 
the heart of almost any one. 

Carson was several rods distant, but seeing the danger 
of his friend, he bounded out of his saddle, and shouted 
to the others to rally to the defence of their imperilled 
comrade. Kit raised his rifle while on the run and shot 
the leading warrior dead. The other whites were so 
close behind that the remaining Blackfeet whirled and 
ran for their lives. Several of them were shot down 
before they could reach the shelter of the rocks from 
behind which they sprang after the fallen white man. 

Carson's devotion to his friend now placed him in an 
unpleasant if not dangerous situation. His steed being 
without restraint, galloped off beyond his reach, and the 
commander was thus left on foot, when there was urgent 
need that he should be mounted. 

Meanwhile the mountaineer who was caught undet 
the body of his horse, was struggling desperately to 
withdraw his imprisoned leg, for there was no saying 
when the Blackfeet would be upon him again. He sue* 
ceeded at last, and, standing upon his feet, shook him- 
self together, as may be said, and he found that though 
pretty badly bruised, no bones were broken, and he was 
able to do his full part in the serious duty before him. 

The exciting episode benefited the trappers in one 
respect : it served to check the seemingly resistless rush 
of the Blackfeet and gave the others a chance to rally 
and fix upon some course of action. 



92 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

Carson ran rapidly toward the nearest horseman and 
sprang upon the back of his animal behind him. The 
steed was forced to his best and speedily joined the main 
body a short distance off. It was fortunate that just at 
that moment there came a lull in the furious fighting, else 
Carson could scarcely have escaped so well. The runa- 
way horse was pursued by one of the mountaineers who 
finally cornered and brought him back to their leader. 

The Blackfeet did not follow the whites, nor did the 
latter return to their charge against them. Both parties 
had gained a thorough taste of each other's mettle, and 
the conclusion reached was like that of two trained pugi- 
lists — their strength was so nearly equal that neither 
could afford to throw away his advantage by leading in 
the assault. 

Undoubtedly Carson and his men would have with- 
drawn but for the hope that the reserves were close at 
hand. The trappers had fought valiantly but not more 
so than the Indians, who still possessed plenty ammuni- 
tion while that of the whites was nearly exhausted. Had 
they advanced and encountered the warriors again, the 
latter would have swept everything before them. As it 
was, the mountaineers were by no means safe even when 
acting on the defensive. If the red men should charge 
upon them with their old time fierceness, it was by no 
means certain they would not destroy the whites. The 
fight would necessarily be of the most sanguinary nature, 
but when guns and small arms were useless for lack of 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 93 

ammunition, nothing short of a miracle could save them 
from annihilation. 

Several hours had gone and Carson and his men won- 
dered what could delay the reserves. Time always 
passes slowly to those in waiting, and to some of the 
hunters the tardiness of their friends was unaccountable. 
Carson was on the point of sending messengers back to 
hurry them forward, when the whole party appeared and 
the situation changed. 

But those who expected the Blackfeet to flee in panic 
when they observed the doubling of the assailing forces, 
were much mistaken. The feeling among the Indians 
could not be described as in the least " panicky," They 
quietly surveyed the new arrivals and prepared with the 
coolness of veterans for the conflict that was sure to 
come, within the next few minutes. 

The powder was distributed among the trappers who 
were more eager than ever to attack their old 
enemies, who were as ready as they for the conflict. 
Nearly two hundred yards separated the combatants, 
when the mountaineers, leaving their horses behind, 
advanced on foot. The Blackfeet stationed themselves 
behind rocks and trees and defiantly awaited the attack. 

In a few minutes the most savage fight of the day was 
raging. A hundred rifles were flashing in every direction 
and the yells of the red men mingled with the shouts of 
the excited mountaineers. 

As the warriors l\ad used every means to shelter 



94 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

themselves, it was necessary to dislodge them before they 
could be driven back. Without remaining together in a 
compact mass, the trappers made for them with the 
fierceness of tigers. 

The result of this charge were a number of remark- 
able combats. A hunter would dash at a warrior crouch- 
ing behind some rock, and the two would begin dodging, 
advancing, retreating, firing, striking and manoeuvering 
against each other. Sometimes one would succeed and 
sometimes the other. The Blackfoot, finding the situa- 
tion becoming too hot, would break for other cover and 
probably would be shot on the run or would escape 
altogether. Again, it would be the white man who 
would be just a second too late in discharging his gun 
and would pay the penalty with his life. 

At last the Indians began falling back and the moun- 
taineers, pushing them hard, they finally broke and fled 
in a wild panic, leaving many dead behind them. On 
the part of the trappers three had been killed and quite a 
number badly wounded. 



CHAPTER XVI. 

At Brown's Hole — Trading in the Navajoe Country — Carson 
Serves as Hunter at Brown's Hole — Trapping in the Black 
Hills — On the Yellowstone — Fight with the Blackfeet — Their 
Retreat to an Island— Their Flight During the Night— An 
Imposing Array of Warriors. 

The fight between the Blackfeet and trappers was one 
of the most important in which Kit Carson, previous to 
the late war, was ever engaged. The forces must have 
included several hundred, and the lesson administered 
to the aggressive red men was remembered by them a 
long time. 

After burying their dead, looking after the wounded 
and setting matters to rights, the hunters resumed trapping 
through the Blackfoot country. They were scarcely dis- 
turbed by their old enemies who dreaded rousing the 
resentment of such a formidable body of daring and 
unerring marksmen. 

Our friends were very successful, and, when they made 
their way to the rendezvous, a week's journey away, they 
carried with them an immense stock of peltries. When 
the trading was finished, the parties made new combina- 
tions and departed in different directions. Instead of 
attaching himself to a large company, Kit Carson and 
seven choice spirits started for a trading post known at 

95 



96 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

that time as Brown's Hole. They reached there just in 
time for the leader to join an expedition, numbering only 
two beside himself, which went into the Navajoe country 
for purposes of barter. The venture proved a great suc- 
cess and Carson drifted back again to Brown's Hole. 
There such liberal offers were made him to serve as 
hunter for the fort, that he accepted and entered upon his 
rather singular, but exceedingly congenial duties. 

These, as the reader must know, simply consisted of 
keeping the garrison supplied with all the meat they 
needed. Though the country was noted for its fine game, 
it required much time, skill and patience for Carson tc 
make sure that none of the vigorous appetites at the 
post suffered. No one could have done better and very 
few as well as he. When spring came, and he gave up 
his position, he was complimented by those whom he 
left behind on the admirable manner in which he had 
met all requirements. 

During those years there was much similarity in the 
life and experience of Kit Carson. He had become 
known all through the west and southwest as the most 
daring, sagacious and brilliant leader in that country. 
His services were in demand wherever he went, and as 
he was in the enjoyment of perfect health, overrunning 
with life and activity, he made money rapidly and showed 
his wisdom by laying aside a respectable sum for a rainy 
day. 

In the spring following his engagement at Brown's 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 97 

Hole, he went with a small party to the Black Hills, 
where they were quite successful in hunting. Later in 
the summer they joined the main body of trappers on 
Green River. All meeting at the general rendezvous on 
a branch of the Wind River. Still later, the majority of 
the trappers went into winter quarters on the Yellowstone. 
They were again in the country of their bitter enemies, the 
Blackfeet, and were certain of a fight with them; but 
several months passed without molestation. 

One day, however, several of the trappers who were 
making the rounds of the traps, came upon signs which 
showed they were close to a strong force of the Black- 
feet. The men lost no time in hurrying back to camp 
with the news, where it was agreed that trouble was at 
hand. 

Forty men were selected at once to hunt out the 
Indians and engage them in battle. It goes without say- 
ing, that Kit Carson was made the leader and there was 
not a moment's unnecessary delay in starting out to find 
the enemy. 

They were successful in their search. They suddenly 
found themselves in the presence of a scouting party, 
who were undoubtedly looking for them ; but perceiving 
the strength of the whites, they began retreating. Carson 
and his men pressed them hotly, when, as anticipated, 
they fell back on the main body and one of the old- 
fashioned battles between trappers and Indians began. 

The Blackfeet always fight bravely, and, for a time, 
7 



98 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

they held their ground well, but they were forced to give 
way and retired to a small island in the Yellowstone, 
where they had thrown up rude fortifications and felt able 
to hold their own against a much superior force. 

Darkness closed in upon the contending forces, and 
the assailants ceased firing and encamped for the night 
on the bank of the river. They were on the qui vive 
through the still hours, and so eager for the attack that 
with the earliest streakings of light in the east, they 
plunged into the stream and made for the barricades. It 
was not to be supposed that the Blackfeet would be taken 
off their guard, and the trappers expected to reach the 
defences through a hot fusilade from the dusky defenders. 

To their surprise, however, not a single gun was dis- 
charged and they rushed pell mell over the rugged forti- 
fications to engage the enemy in hand-to-hand conflict. 
To their chagrin, however, not a solitary Blackfoot was 
visible. Despite the watchfulness of the white men, the 
entire Indian force had withdrawn during the night with- 
out arousing the least suspicion on the part of the 
watchers. 

But the trappers were too wise to misconstrue the 
action of the Blackfeet. Their withdrawal was a strategic 
movement, and did not by any means signify they were 
afraid of the large force or that they would prefer not to 
molest them. The signs around the fortifications showed 
that the Indians had suffered severely and they would 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 99 

never content themselves until full retaliation had been 
made. 

The trappers returned to camp, where a long council 
was held. The conclusion was that the Biackfoot village 
was near by, and when they learned of the severe punish- 
ment received by the scouting party, they would lose no 
time in entering upon a campaign of revenge. As the 
Blackfeet nation included several thousand warriors, there 
was reason to fear they would overwhelm the trappers, 
despite their bravery and skill. Barricades were thrown 
up and the best men stationed as sentinels. One of them 
hastened to the top of an adjoining hill, which com- 
manded an extensive view of the surrounding country. 

The sentinel had been in position but a short time, 
when he signalled to his friends the approach of a large 
body of Indians. Tlie hunters immediately began 
strengthening their defences, and before the redskins 
arrived, they had rendered their position almost impreg- 
nable against any force that could be gathered in the 
country. 

As the Blackfeet approached, the sentinel hurried down 
from the hill and joined the main body. Shortly after, 
the advance party of Blackfeet came in sight and made a 
reconnoissance which apprised them of the nature of the 
defences. They did not fire a shot but waited until the 
arrival of the main band. 

When that came in sight, it was enough to strike dis- 
may into every heart. There were few if any less than 

l.ofC. 



lOO LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

a thousand warriors. Dr. Peters, the biographer of Car- 
son, says : 

" It was a sight which few white men of the American 
nation have looked upon. Arrayed in their fantastic war 
costume and bedaubed with paint, armed with lances, 
bows and arrov/s, rifles, tomahawks, knives, etc., some 
mounted and some on foot, they presented a wild and 
fearful scene of barbaric fancy. 

" Soon after their last company had reported, the 
frightful war dance, peculiar to the American savages, 
was enacted in sight of the trappers' position. The bat- 
tle songs and shouts which accompanied the dance 
reached the ears of the whites with fearful distinctness. 
Any other than hearts of oak with courage of steel would 
have quailed before this terrible display of savage enmity 
and ferocity. This dance, to men, well skilled in the 
ways of the Indian warrior, was a sure signal that the 
next day would be certain to have a fearful history for 
one party or the other and doubtless for both. The odds, 
most assuredly, were apparently greatly in favor of the 
savage host and against the little band of hardy moun- 
taineers." 



CHAPTER XVII. 

The Morrow — Withdrawal of the Indian Army — At Fort Hall — 
In the Blackfoot Country — The Ambush — The Trappers Decide 
to Withdraw — Trapping in Other Localities — Carson Decides to 
Abandon the Business — Visits Bent's Fort Where He Serves as 
Hunter for Eight Years. 

Having gone through what the red men consider the 
necessary preliminaries of such a grand campaign, the 
vast number of warriors awaited the dawn that was to 
witness the annihilation of the entire force that had dared 
to venture upon their hunting grounds without so much 
as asking permission. 

It was scarcely light when the imposing array advanced 
upon the mountaineers who coolly awaited their 
approach. When the Blackfeet came close enough to 
see the fortifications thrown up by the whites, they were 
astonished. They knew from previous experience the 
strength of such means of defence and suddenly lost 
their eagerness to make the attack. 

After a full survey of the work before them, they con- 
cluded the task was beyond accomplishment. The 
magnificent force, therefore, began withdrawing. It was 
the turn of the trappers to feel disappointed. They had 
not thought of any such issue and were enraged. They 
shouted and made tantalizing gestures to the Blackfeet, 

lOI 



I02 LIFE OF K'lT CARSOX. 

ill the hope of goadiny[ ihcin to stand their ground, but 
they were too wise to i\o so. They retreated to a safe 
point where a council of war was heUl. It was not to be 
expected that after sucli an abrupt withdrawal, they could 
sunu»U)Ji cMuni^di courage to make the assault. 

When the conference was t)ver, the Indian army, as if 
may be called, brt)ke into two divisions, one of which 
went back toward their own village while the other set 
their faces toward the Crow country. IJnt ertain whether 
they wt)uKl not reappear when they believed Iheie was 
hope of surprising the mountaineers, the hitter main- 
tained their vigilance day anil night. 

It may have been that the red men made several 
reconnoissances, but, if so, they concluded it would be 
impiiulciit to attack the mouutaiueers who helil their 
position and continued trapping as opportunity presented 
tlirough the winter. 

After trapping in various localities, Kit Carson and 
several frieiuls visited h'ort 1 lall, where they joined a party 
in the employ of the Noithwest I'vu^ Company. 1 hey 
trapped around the heail o{ Salmon River and other 
Streams, and finally returned to h\>rt Hall, where the 
peltries were sold for a fair valuation. Then Carson ami 
a tew others set out to join a pait)- whieh he knew was 
trapping in the IMackfoot eounti). l'i>i)n coming up 
with them, he was told that tlu)- had had several shai() 
skirmishes with the liuliaus, in one oi whiih a trapper 
was severely wounded. The tollowing morning, C "arson 



^IFE OF KIT CARSON. IO3 

and his comrades parted from the rest and were trapping 
slowly up stream, when they were fired upon by Black- 
feet and compelled to retreat. They hurried back and 
succeeded in escaping a serious danger ; but the pursuit 
was so close that Carson hastily stationed his men in 
ambush. A hot fire dropped several of the warriors and 
caused the others to hesitate. 

The halt was just long enough to allow the trappers to 
reload their pieces, when the Blackfeet made a fiercer 
rush than before; but with that pertinacious courage for 
which the tribe is noted, they kept up the fight through 
the rest of the day, determined to throw away no advant- 
age they might gain. Had Carson chosen his position 
with less judgment, he and his command must have been 
overwhelmed, for nothing could have exceeded the daring 
of their assailants, who in their desperation set fire to the 
thicket in which the mountaineers had ensconced them- 
selves ; but the shrubbery was too green to burn well, 
and, after a Httle while, it died out. Then it must have 
been the red men concluded it was useless to strive 
further, and, learning that the main body of the trappers 
were not {av o{{^ they departed. 

'V\\c annoyance from these Indians was so great that it 
was decided to leave the country. While the trappers 
were able to hold their own against them, yet it was 
impossible to make much progress in taking furs, when 
their attention was mainly taken up in fighting tne war- 



I04 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

riors, who varied their shooting by destroying the traps 
that were set for the beavers. 

The next scene of operations was the North Fork of 
the Missouri where they had been engaged only a short 
time when they came upon an extensive village of Flat- 
head Indians. These showed their friendliness to the 
trappers by sending one of their chiefs and a number of 
warriors who helped them hunt along the different 
streams. 

The following spring Carson and a single companion 
set their traps in the vicinity of Big Snake River. This 
was the country of the Utah Indians, who were well dis- 
posed towards the whites. Thus, while furs were plenty, 
the couple were enabled to devote their whole time to 
taking them, without fear of being fired upon every time 
they ventured out of sight of camp. As a consequence, 
they succeeded beyond their own expectations, and, 
making their way to the nearest post, sold the stock for a 
fair sum. 

The peltries were scarcely disposed of, when Carson 
organized another expedition which visited the Grand 
River, over which they trapped until winter, when they 
returned to Brown's Hole, where Carson remained until 
spring. Then he trapped once more in the land of the 
Utahs and at New Park, taking their furs to the post 
where he was obliged to sell them for a much less sum 
than he had ever received before. 

The transaction had an important bearing on the 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. I05 

fortunes of Kit Carson, for it was proof of an unpleasant 
truth that had been forcing itself for a number of months 
upon him : the days of remunerative trapping were ended. 

For years, the demand had been growing steadily less 
both in Europe and America. The ingenuity of the 
manufacturer showed itself in the make of cheaper sub- 
stitutes, while the beavers that had been hunted so per- 
sistently were becoming scarce: there were few regions 
in which trapping could be pursued with any success. 

Nothing could be plainer, therefore, to Carson than the 
fact that he must soon give up the business and engage 
in something else to gain a livelihood. What should 
it be? 

Carson and several veteran trappers started for Bent's 
Fort, located on the Arkansas, near an immense forest 
of cottonwoods, known as the Big Timbers. Messrs. 
Bent and St. Vrain, the proprietors no sooner learned that 
Carson contemplated a change of occupation, than they 
offered him the position of hunter for the fort, his duties 
being to keep it supplied with all the game that was 
required. 

Carson was more willing to accept the offer than he 
would have been under other circumstances. He agreed 
that the large number of men should never want for 
animal food, and, having given his promise, he kept it 
most faithfully for a period of eight years. 

This statement includes a great deal, for it means that 
his wonderful rifle brought down thousands of deer, 



Io6 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

antelope, elk and bisons ; that he tramped over hundreds 
of leagues of wilderness ; that his splendid health never 
failed him, and that his knowledge of the woods and its 
inhabitants was as full and complete as it could be. 

Furthermore, it is stated by Dr. Peters, that during 
that entire period, not a single impatient word passed 
between Carson and his employers. He attended to his 
duties with such regularity, promptness and skill that 
the only comments they could make on his work were in 
the nature of strong compliments. 

Inasmuch as we have claimed that Carson was the 
superior in every respect of those with whom he was 
associated, we must dwell for a moment on this fact. Let 
the reader ask himself how many cases he knows where 
the term of service has been so long, in which not a single 
unkind word has passed between employer and employee. 

His occupation as hunter was not monotonous, for 
where there were so many to provide for, difficult and 
dangerous work was required and the journeys which he 
often made through the long stretches of wilderness were 
sometimes attended with much personal danger. 

But the surrounding tribes, including the Arapahoes, 
Kiowas, Cheyennes, Comanches and others, looked upon 
the great hunter with affectionate admiration and no 
guest was more welcome and honored in their lodges 
than he. 



CHAPTER XVIII. 

Carson Visits his Old Home in Missouri — He Goes to St. Louis^ 
Voyage up the Missouri — Makes the Acquaintance of LieU' 
tenant John C. Fremont — Is engaged as a Guide for Fre- 
mont's First Expedition — The Start Westward — Various Mis- 
haps — The Emigrants — The False Alarm 

Kit Carson had left his home in Missouri when only 
a boy and he was now in the prime of a vigorous young 
manhood. The years since he turned his back upon his 
old home, had been busy and eventful ones and now, as 
is often the case wtth those placed as was he, he longed 
to visit the scenes of his childhood, and to meet and 
shake the hands of those of his old friends who were 
still among the living. 

In the spring of 1842, Carson went eastward with a 
train of wagons, carrying goods to the States. W^hen 
the borders of Missouri were reached, he bade his com- 
panions good-bye and made his way back to his old 
home. His experience was touching. His parents were 
dead, the old building which would ever linger in his 
memory, had tumbled down and nearly every one whom 
he met was a stranger. The cheeks of the hardy 
mountaineer were wet with tears, and with a sigh, he 
turned his face away forever. 

107 



I08 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

Carson had never seen a large city, and he made his 
way to St. Louis, where he spent more than a week in 
sight seeing. Before the end of that time, the old yearn- 
ing for the mountains, prairies and streams of the West 
came back to him, and he engaged passage on a steamer 
up the Missouri. 

On the same boat John C. Fremont was a passenger 
He was two years younger than Carson and had been 
commissioned Second Lieutenant in the Corps of Topo- 
graphical Engineers, in 1838. Four years later he pro- 
jected a geographical survey of the entire territory ot 
the United States from the Missouri River to the Pacific. 

Carson was attracted by the fine, manly and intellec- 
tual appearance of Fremont, and, learning he was in 
search of a skilful mountaineer, he introduced himself, 
referring in a modest fashion to his experience in the 
west and expressing the belief that he could be of service 
to the explorer, 

Fremont was an excellent judge of character and was 
favorably impressed with Carson from the first. The 
answers to the inquiries which he made concerning the 
famous guide and mountaineer, were satisfactory in the 
highest degree. He engaged Carson as his guide, agree- 
ing to pay him a salary of one hundred dollars a month. 

The party of explorers were mainly gathered in St. 
Louis. It was composed mostly of Creole and Canadian 
voyageurs, Charles Preuss, a learned German, a young son 
of Colonel Benton (which statesman was the father-in- 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 109 

law of Fremont), several other friends, including a noted 
mountaineer named Maxwell, who was employed as the 
hunter of the party. Including the commander, the 
entire company numbered twenty-eight. 

With this party of explorers Fremont ascended the 
Missouri until the mouth of the Kansas was reached, 
when they disembarked and made their preparations for 
the long and dangerous journey before them. The 
march westward began June 10, 1842. 

The course lay along the banks of the Kansas. All 
the party were well armed and well mounted, excepting 
eight men, each of whom drove a cart, drawn by two 
mules. These carts contained the stores, baggage and 
instruments of the expedition. A number of spare 
horses were taken along, so as to provide against loss 
in that respect. In addition, they had four oxen 
intended to serve as a reserve in the event of provisions 
running short. 

It was the custom to arouse the camp at day-break 
and turn out the animals to graze; breakfast followed 
and the march was begun. The noon halt lasted from 
one to two hours and the afternoon's march ended a 
short time before sunset. The tents were then pitched, 
horses hobbled and turned out to graze, and the evening 
meal prepared. When it became dark, all the animals 
were brought in and picketed, the carts arranged so as 
to serve as barricades and guard mounted. 

An Indian guide conducted the expedition for the first 



no LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

forty miles along the Kansas, when he departed and the 
responsibility was turned over to Carson. The pilot had 
guided the steamer out of the harbor and upon the great 
ocean, and henceforth the hand of Carson was to be at 
^he helm. 

The soil over which they journeyed for many miles 
was of the most fertile character. Numbers of Indian 
farms were seen, and one could not but reflect on the 
possibilities of the future for the red man, who should 
abandon war and give his energies to the cultivation of 
the ground. 

Sucli an expedition could not go far without a taste of 
the trials that awaited them. On the second night, the 
four spare horses seemed to become disgusted with the 
whole enterprise, and turning their heads eastward 
started on a rapid gallop for the States. Their loss was 
too serious to be borne, and a number of men were dis- 
patched in pursuit. The chase was a long one and the 
animals were not recovered for several hours. One of 
the men lost his way and was forced to spend the night 
on the open prairie. At mid-night it began to rain, and 
then the exceedingly unpleasant discovery was made that 
the tents on which the explorers relied for protection and 
shelter were so thin that they were drenched as if the 
water came through a sieve. 

The morning, however brought clear weather and 
bright sunlight, and all were in high spirits. The 
scenery for a time was of a pleasing and picturesque 



LIFE OF Kir CARSON. lii 

character, and they pushed contentedly forward, until 
they arrived at the ford of the Kansas, one hundred 
miles from the point where it emptied into the Missouri. 

The stream was found so swollen from recent rains 
that it could not be forded. Accordingly several of the 
mounted men forced their animals into the stream and 
swam them across to serve as guides for the rest. They 
succeeded quite well, excepting the oxen, which, after 
floundering awhile, landed on the same side from which 
they started. The following morning they succeeded in 
crossing. 

Among the useful articles with which Fremont had 
provided himself, was an India rubber boat, twenty feet 
long and five feet wide. This was very buoyant and the 
carts and baggage were carried over piece meal in it, 
with the exception of the last two carts. Laden with 
these the boat left the shore but had not gone far when the 
man at the helm, who was exceedingly nervous, managed 
to capsize the craft, with all its precious cargo. The 
hunters were so dismayed over the prospect of losing 
their stores that nearly all plunged into the stream and 
made frantic efforts to save what they could. Several 
did not stop to remember that they could not swim, so 
that the principal efforts of some of the others were 
directed to saving them. 

Most of the goods were recovered, but nearly all the 
sugar dissolved and every grain of coffee was lost. It 
would be hard to imagine any deprivation greater thaa 



112 tJFlE OF KIT CARSON. 

that to which this misfortune condemned the explorers. 
Carson and one of the others made such strenuous efforts 
in the water that they were ill the next day, and Fremont 
remained in camp for twenty-four hours with a view of 
giving them time to recruit. 

The journey westward progressed without any special 
incident. A large party of emigrants on their way to 
Oregon were several weeks in advance of the explorers. 
Bad fortune seemed to have followed them from the 
start, and numerous freshly made graves were seen. One 
of the emigrants who had been peculiarly unfortunate, 
came into camp with a hunter on his way home. He took 
charge of the letters which the explorers desired to send 
to their families. 

The party soon reached the Pawnee country where 
they were forced to unusual vigilance, for those Indians 
have long been noted as most persistent horse thieves. 
Game was abundant. Large flocks of wild turkeys were 
found roosting in the trees along the streams ; elk, ante . 
lope and deer were plentiful, and as for bisons, they were 
beyond all computation. 

One day a member of the company happened to be 
riding at the rear galloped up in hot haste, shouting, 
"Indians!'' He declared that he had seen them dis- 
tinctly and counted twenty-seven. An immediate halt 
was called, and Carson, leaping on one of the fleetest 
horses crossed the river and galloped over the prairie. 
" Mounted on a fine horse without a saddle," says Fre- 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 113 

mont, ''and scouring, bareheaded, over the prairies, Kit 
was one of the finest pictures of a horseman I have ever 
seen. He soon returned quite leisurely, and informed 
them that the party of twenty-seven Indians had resolved 
itself into a herd of six elk who, having discovered us, 
had scampered off at full speed." 
8 



CHAPTER XIX. 

On the Platte — A False Alarm — The Cheyennes — Fremonfc 
Account of his Buffalo Hunt — Division of the Party — Fremont's 
Journey up the South Fork — The Band of Indians — Arrival at 
St. Vrain's Fort — The Journey to Fort Laramie. 

Fremont and his party, after traveling something over 
three hundred miles from the mouth of the Kansas 
reached the Platte river, where they encamped in a 
charming place near Grand Island. The country was 
most beautiful, though they suffered somewhat from the 
violent storms which frequently broke over them. 

The noon halt was made and all were lounging about 
the camp, when one of the men on guard called an 
alarm. Everybody sprang to his feet and grasped his 
rifle, expecting an attack from Indians. A strange wild 
looking company were seen approaching, but, as they 
came closer, they were discovered to be white men. They 
were a striking sight, numbering fourteen, in the most 
raggec and woe-begone condition imaginable. They 
had been on a trapping expedition, but having met with 
nothing but disasters from the beginning, were now 
straggling back to St. Louis on foot. 

The explorers proceeded at a leisurely pace that day, 
and having gone into camp, observed three Indians 
drawing near^ one of whom was a boy about a dozen 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON-. 1 1 J 

years of age. They were Cheyennes that had been out 
among the Pawnees to steal horses, but having met with 
no success, were returning home. Catching sight of the 
white men, they unhesitatingly entered camp, confident 
of being treated well, as of course proved to be the case. 
After supper one of the warriors drew a rude but correct 
map of the country around them, and gave it to Fre- 
mont. 

On the first of July, while riding over a delightful 
prairie country, on the right bank of the river, a herd of 
buffaloes, numbering nearly a thousand, came up from 
the water and began slowly crossing the plain, cropping 
the grass as they went. As the prairie was three miles 
broad only, a fine opportunity was given the hunters to 
charge before the animals could scatter among the hills. 

The fleetest horses were quickly saddled and Carson, 
Fremont, and Maxwell prepared for the chase. By that 
time the herd was a half mile away and they did not 
notice the hunters until they were within three hundred 
yards. Then followed an agitation of the animals, quickly 
followed by their precipitate flight. The horses dashed 
after them. A crowd of bulls brought up the rear, they 
having stationed themselves there to defend the females. 
Every once in a while they would whirl about and stare, 
snorting at the horsemen, as if they had made up their 
minds to fight; but when the hunters came nigher, they 
turned about and plunged after the herd. Describing the 
exciting incident, Fremont wrote : 



Il6 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

" In a few moments, during which we had been quick- 
ening our pace, we were going over the ground Hke a 
hurricane. When at about thirty yards we gave the 
usual shout and broke into the herd. We entered on the 
side, the mass giving away in every direction in their 
heedless course. Many of the bulls, less fleet than the 
cows, paying no heed to the ground, and occupied solely 
with the hunters, were precipitated to the earth with 
great force, rolling over and over with the violence of the 
shock, and hardly distinguishable in the dust. We sepa- 
rated, on entering, each singling out his game. 

" My horse was a trained hunter,, famous in the west 
under the name of Proveau, and with his eyes flashing 
and the foam flying from his mouth, he sprang on after 
the cow Hke a tiger. In a few moments he brought me 
alongside of her. Rising in the stirrups, I fired, at the 
distance of a yard, the ball entering at the termination of 
the long hair, passing near the heart. She fell headlong 
at the report of the gun. Checking my horse, I looked 
around for my companions. 

" At a little distance Kit was on the ground engaged 
in tying his horse to the horns of a cow, which he was 
preparing to cut up. Among the scattered band at some 
distance, I caught a glimpse of Maxwell. While I was 
looking, a light wreath of white smoke curled away from 
his gun, from which I was too far to hear the report. 
Nearer, and between me and the hills, toward which they 
were directing their course, was the body of the herd. 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, WJ 

Giving my horse the rein, we dashed after them. A 
thick cloud of dust hung upon their rear, which filled 
my mouth and eyes and nearly smothered me. In the 
midst of this I could see nothing, and the buffaloes were 
not distinguishable until within thirty feet. They crowded 
together more densely still, as I came upon them, and 
rushed along in such a compact body that I could not 
obtain an entrance, the horse almost leaping upon them. 

" In a {^\N moments the mass divided to the right and 
left, the horns clattering with a noise heard above every- 
thing else, and my horse darted into the opening. Five 
or six bulls charged on us as we dashed along the line, 
but were left far behind. Singling out a cow, I gave her 
my fire but struck too high. She gave a tremendous leap 
and scoured on swifter than before. I reined up my 
horse, and the band swept on like a torrent, and left the 
place quiet and clear. Our chase had led us into dan- 
gerous ground. A prairie dog village, so thickly settled 
that there were three or four holes in twenty yards square, 
occupied the whole bottom for nearly two miles in 
length." 

The stirring buffalo hunt ended, the company advanced 
over the prairie for more than twenty miles, and encamped 
on the banks of a stream, where they enjoyed a fine feast 
on choice bison steaks. While they were thus employed, 
the wolves were attracted thither by the smell of broiling 
meat and prowled around camp, licking their chops^ 



Il8 UFE OF KIT CARSON. 

impatient for the time when they would be permitted to 
gorge themselves upon what should be left. 

For several days there was little variation in the experi, 
ence of the explorers, and no special incident took place^ 
At the junction of the north and south fork of the Platte, 
Fremont, who wished to explore the south branch and to 
secure some astronomical observations, set out with nine 
men intending to advance to St. Vrain's fort, where he 
was hopeful of obtaining some mules. The rest of the 
party followed the north fork to fort Laramie, where it 
was agreed they would wait for the others to join them. 

Fremont's experience in going up the south branch was 
in strong contrast to the pleasant scenes of the previous. 
It was midsummer and the weather was suffocatingly hot. 
Fierce storms of wind and gusts of rain swept the country, 
while the bisons were everywhere. They literally num- 
bered hundreds of thousands, and, look in whatsoever 
direction the men chose, they were sure to see the huge 
creatures cropping the grass or lumbering across the 
prairie. 

On the fourth day a band of three hundred mounted 
Indians suddenly appeared. The chief proved to be an 
old acquaintance of Maxwell and showed genuine pleas- 
ure in meeting him. They shook hands and the sachem 
conducted the little party to his village, where they 
received most hospitable treatment. 

Resuming their journey, they encamped in a cotton- 
wood grove in a chilly drizzling rain. The next morning 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, II9 

dawned bright and clear, and they caught their first 
glimpse of the Rocky Mountains. They gazed long on 
the snowy peaks outlined in the far distance hke ^t^cy 
clouds against the blue sky. 

St. Vrain's Fort was reached on the tenth day. They 
were made welcome by Mr. St. Vrain, who was much 
interested in the expedition westward and did everything 
he could to assist Lieutenant Fremont in the enterprise. 
The needed horses and mules were secured, and three 
men were hired to accompany them across the country 
to Fort Laramie. 

This station was a hundred and twenty-five miles dis- 
tant, and the new hands engaged, as a matter of course, 
were so familiar with it, that there was no possibility of 
going astray. The journey was resumed on the second 
day after reaching the fort, and without meeting with 
any particular incident they arrived at their destination, 
three days later. 

Fort Laramie, at that time, was one of the most 
important posts of the far west. It had large bastions at 
the corners, and its high walls were whitewashed and 
picketed. 

Several lodges of Sioux Indians were pitched close by, 
and the division under charge of Kit Carson having 
arrived several days before, had also gone into camp 
\intil the appearance of the commander of the expedition. 



CHAPTER XX. 

Alarming News— Fremont Presses Forward and is Not Molested 

Arrival at South Pass— Fremont's Account of the Ascent of 

the Highest Peak of the Rocky Mountains— The Return to Fort 
Laramie— Carson Starts for New Mexico — End of Fremont's 
First Exploring Expedition. 

Alarming news awaited Fremont at Fort Laramie. A 
number of trappers informed them that the Sioux, 
through whose country their route lay, were excited to 
exasperation by several recent conflicts with hunters in 
which the red men were worsted. The Sioux warriors 
were gathered in large numbers and would attack any 
white men who ventured beyond the fort. They had 
already massacred a number and it was impossible for 
Fremont and his party to get through without a battle in 
which they were likely to be overwhelmed. 

Carson looked upon the situation as so serious that he 
made his will and left it at the fort. When consulted by 
Fremont, he said he considered the prospect full of peril, 
"but he was ready to go the moment required. The com- 
mander was- confident the danger was greatly exagger- 
ated, and, without much misgiving, he resumed his jour- 
ney westward, following up the north fork of the Platte. 
Game and water were found, and, at the end of three 
weeks, they arrived at the South Pass oi the Rocky 
1 20 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 121 

Mountains without having exchanged a shot with a red 
man on the way. 

They had now reached their destination and Lieuten- 
ant Fremont at once began his observations. When 
they were concluded he undertook the ascent of the 
highest mountain peak. The situation was anything but 
encouraging : they were in the country of the hostile 
Blackfeet, some of whom were observed hovering in the 
vicinity; men and animals were worn out and it was hard 
to procure game. But the ascent was begun, Fremont 
taking fourteen men with him. Those who were left in 
camp erected a rude but strong fort, behind which they 
were confident they could sustain themselves against any 
force the Indians were likely to muster. 

The ascent of the mountain was laborious in the 
extreme. Kit Carson climbed to one of the loftiest peaks 
from which he gained a full view of the very highest ele- 
vation. The next day Fremont sent parson and several 
of the men back. He unquestionably intended that no 
one should share with him the honor of climbing the 
most elevated point. This exploit is worthy of descrip- 
tion at the hands of the Pathfinder himself. 

"At intervals we reached places where a number of 
springs gushed from the rocks, and about i,8oo feet 
above the lakes came to the snow line. From this point 
our progress was uninterrupted climbing. Hitherto, I 
had worn a pair of thick moccasins, with soles of par- 
fieche; but here I put on a light thin pair, which I had 



122 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

brought for the purpose, as now the use of our toes 
became necessary to a further advance. I availed myself 
of a sort of comb of the mountain, which stood against 
the wall like a buttress, and which the wind and solar 
radiation, joined to the steepness of the smooth rock, 
had kept almost entirely free from snow. Up this I 
made my way rapidly. Our cautious method of advanc- 
ing in the outset had spared my strength ; and, with the 
exception of a slight disposition to headache, I felt no 
remains of yesterday's illness. In a few minutes we 
reached a point where the buttress was overhanging, and 
there was no other way of surmounting the difficulty 
than by passing around one side of it, which was the 
face of a vertical precipice of several hundred feet." 

Parfleche is the name given to buffalo hide. The 
Indian women prepare it by scraping and drying. It is 
exceedingly tough and hard, and receives its name from 
the circumstance that it cannot be pierced by arrows or 
spears. The entire dress of Fremont and his party, on 
their ascent to the *'top of America," consisted of a blue 
flannel shirt, free and open at the neck, the collar turning 
down over a black silk handkerchief tied loosely, blue 
cloth pantaloons, a slouched broad-brimmed hat, and 
moccasins as above described. It was well adapted to 
climbing, quite light, and at the same time warm, and 
every way comfortable. 

" Putting hands and feet in the crevices between the 
blocks, I succeeded in getting over it, and when I reached 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. \2y 

the top, found my companions in a small valley below. 
Descending to them, we continued climbing, and in a 
short time reached the crest. I sprang upon the summit 
and another step would have precipitated me into a» 
immense snow-field five hundred feet below. To the 
edge of this field was a sheer icy precipice ; and then, 
with a gradual fall, the field sloped off for about a mile^ 
until it struck the foot of another lower ridge. I stood 
on a narrow crest about three feet in width, with ait 
inclination of about 20^N. 5i°E. As soon as I had 
gratified the first feelings of curiosity I descended, and 
each man ascended in turn, for I would only allow one at 
a time to mount the unstable and precarious slab, which 
it seemed a breath would hurl into the abyss below. We 
mounted the barometer in the snow of the summit, and, 
fixing a ramrod in a crevice, unfurled the national flag, ta 
wave in the breeze, where never flag waved before. Dur- 
ing our morning's ascent, we met no sign of animal life, 
except a small bird having the appearance of a sparrow. 
A stillness the most profound, and a terrible soHtude 
forced themselves constantly on the mind as the great 
features of the place. Here, on the summit, where the 
stillness was absolute, unbroken by any sound, and the 
solitude complete, we thought ourselves beyond the 
region of animated life ; but while we were sitting on the 
rock, a solitary bee (bombus terrestris, the humble bee) 
came winging his flight from the eastern valley, and lit 
on the knee of one of the men. 



.124 ^^^^ ^^ ^^^ CARSON. 

''Around us the whole scene had one main striking 
feature, which was that of terrible convulsion. Parallel 
to its length, the ridge was split into chasms and fissures, 
between which rose the thin, lofty walls, terminated with 
slender minarets and columns, which are correctly repre- 
vsented in the view from the camp on Island Lake. 
According to the barometer, the little crest of the wall 
-on which we stood was three thousand five hundred and 
-seventy feet above that place, and two thousand seven 
hundred and eighty feet above the little lakes at the 
bottom, immediately at our feet. 

*' Our camp at the Two Hills (an astronomical station) 
-bore south 3° east, which, with a bearing afterward 
.obtained from a fixed position, enabled us to locate the 
Vpeak. The bearing of the Trois Tetons was north 50° 
^west, and the direction of the central ridge of the Wind 
JR-iver Mountains south 39° east. The summit rock was 
gneiss. Sienite and feldspar succeeded in our descent to 
'the snow line, where we found a felspathic granite. I 
liad remarked that the noise produced by the explosion 
^f our pistols had the usual degree of loudness, but was 
.not in the least prolonged, expiring almost instanta- 
neously. Having now made what observations our means 
afforded, we proceeded to descend. We had accom 
3)lished an object of laudable ambition, and beyond the 
•Strict order of our instructions. We had climbed the 
loftiest peak of the Rocky Mountains and looked down 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. \2% 

Upon the snow a thousand feet below, and, standing 
where human foot had never stood before, felt the exulta- 
tion of first explorers. It was about two o'clock whea 
we left the summit; and when we reached the bottont 
the sun had already sunk behind the wall, and the day- 
was drawing to a close. It would have been pleasant to 
linger here and on the summit longer; but we hurried 
away as rapidly as the ground would permit, for it was- 
an object to regain our party as soon as possible, not 
knowing what accident the next hour might bring; 
forth." 

This mountain which bears the name of Fremont's- 
Peak, in honor of the great Pathfinder, was found to be 
13,570 feet above the Gulf of Mexico. 

The object of the expedition was accomplished and 
preparations were made for the return to the states. No> 
accident worth the mention had befallen the explorers^ 
and the Blackfeet, from whom so much was feared, did 
not molest them. It may have been that when their 
scouts reconnoitred the camp, they found the barricades- 
so strong and the garrison so watchful that they decided 
it would be too costly to make an attack upon them. It 
is not impossible that some one or more of them recog^ 
nized the daring mountaineer who more than once years 
before had given their warriors such severe defeat and 
punishment. If such was the truth, we cannot but 
respect the discretion they showed. 



f 26 UFE OF KIT CARSON, 

Fort Laramie was reached in the month of Septembci*, 
1842. There as Kit Carson's labors were ended, he bade 
his commander and friends good-bye and started for 
New Mexico. Fremont and his men reached the states 
in safety and thus ended his first exploring expedition. 



CHAPTER XXI. 

Carson Starts for the States — The Encampment of Captain Cook 
and his Dragoons — Carson Undertakes a DeUcate and Danger- 
ous Mission — The Perilous Journey — Return of Carson and the 
Mexican Boy — Encounter with Four Utah Indians — Arrival at 
Bent's Fort. 

Early in the year 1843, Kit Carson married his sec- 
ond wife and shortly after agreed to accompany an expe- 
dition of Bent & St. Vrain's wagons to the States. 
When part way across the plains, they struck the old 
Santa F^ trail and came upon an encampment of Captain 
Cook with four companies of United States Dragoons, 

They were engaged in escorting a train of Mexican 
wagons to the boundary line between New Mexico and 
the United States. The train was a very valuable one 
and an escort of a hundred men were hired to accompany 
it through the Indian country. 

The situation of this train was an alarming one. It 
was the duty of Captain Cook and his soldiers to guard 
it as far as the fording of the Arkansas, at that time the 
boundary line between the two countries. There was 
good reason for believing that a strong band of Texan 
rangers were waiting beyond, with the intention of 
attacking and plundering the train. Indeed the Mexican: 

127 



128 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

who had it in charge had received information that left 
410 possible doubt of the fact. 

His face Hghted up when he recognized Kit Carson. 
Hardly waiting until they had greeted each other, he 
offered him a liberal reward if he would ride post haste 
to Santa F^ and deliver a letter to the Governor, contain- 
ing an urgent request to send a strong force to escort the 
train thither. 

Carson unhesitatingly accepted the offer and with his 
usual promptness started almost immediately on his deli- 
cate and dangerous business. The journey was one of 
several hundred miles through a country swarming with 
Indians, and all the skill, cunning and vigilance of the 
great scout would be required to succeed. But he never 
faltered in the face of peril. 

A veteran mountaineer agreed to keep him company, 
1)ut, when Bent's Fort was reached he refused to go fur- 
ther, and Carson, as he had often done before in critical 
situations, went on alone. 

The news which he heard at the fort was of a startling 
aiature. The Utah Indians were hostile and his long 
journey led him directly through their country. He 
<ould not censure his friend for declining to go further, 
mor could he blame others whom he asked to accompany 
^him, when they shook their heads. Mr. Bent understood 
the peculiar danger in which Kit would be placed, and 
though he was splendidly mounted, he loaned him a mag- 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 1 29 

nificent steed which he led, ready to mount whenever the 
necessity should arise for doing so. 

That journey was one of the most remarkable of the. 
many made by Kit Carson. It would have been less so,, 
had he possessed a companion of experience, for they could 
have counselled together, and one would have kept watcb 
while the other slept. As it was, Carson was compelled 
to scan every portion of the plain before him, on the con- 
stant lookout for Indians, who would have spared no 
effort to circumvent and slay him, had they known of his. 
presence in their country. He was so placed, indeed^, 
that only by the most consummate skill could he hope ta 
run the continuous gauntlet, hundreds of miles in length.. 

He had gone but a short distance when he detected 
the trails of his enemies, showing they w^ere numerous 
and liable to be encountered at any moment. When 
night came, he picketed his horses and lay down on the 
prairie or in some grove, ready to leap to his feet, bound 
upon one of his steeds and gallop away on a dead run^ 
Where the hunter has no friend to mount guard, he is 
often compelled to depend upon his horses, who frequently 
prove the best kind of sentinels. They are quick tof 
detect the approach of strangers, and a slight neigh or 
stamp of the foot is enough to give the saving warning. 

A large portion of the country over which he rode^ 
was a treeless plain and the keen blue eyes of the match- 
less mountaineer were kept on a continual strain. A 
moving speck in the distant horizon, the faint column of 
Q 



I30 UFE OF KIT CARSON, 

thin smoke rising from the far off grove, or a faint yellow 
dust against the blue sky, coulu only mean one thing — 
the presence of enemies, for he was in a region which 
contained not a single friend. 

One afternoon Carson discovered an Indian village 
directly ahead of him and on the trail which he was fol- 
lowing. He instantly withdrew beyond sight of any who 
might be on guard, and, hunting a sparse grove of tim- 
ber, kept within it until dark; then he made a long cir- 
cuit, and came back to the trail far beyond it. He 
travelled a long distance that night and by daylight was 
In no danger of detection. 

By using such extreme caution and watchfulness, he 
succeeded in passing the entire distance without exchang- 
ing a hostile shot with anyone. He reached Taos, where 
he waited as agreed upon, until his message could be sent 
to the Governor at Santa Fe. While in Taos he learned 
that one hundred men had been sent out to meet the car- 
avan and the Governor himself was about ready to follow 
-with six hundred more. It may be stated in this place 
that the smaller company, while looking for the train 
was attacked by the Texan rangers and with a single 
-exception every man was killed; but venturing into 
American territory, the rangers were disarmed by Captain 
Cook and his dragoons, and the wealthy wagon train, 
with its valuable cargo reached its destination in satety- 

Having accomplished his mission. Carson set out on 
ills return to Bent's Fort. This time he took a Mexican 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 131 

boy with him. The mountaineer had become strongly 
attached to the youth, who was a noble, high-minded 
lad, the fit companion of the prince among plainsmen. 

Two days out from Taos, both were surprised to find 
themselves confronted by four Utah Indians on the war 
path. They appeared so suddenly, that the two friends 
were given little time to make preparation ; but, as some 
distance separated the parties, Kit and the lad hastily con- 
sulted over what was best to do. 

" It is you whom they are seeking,'* said the youth, 
**and your life is worth a great deal more than mine; you 
have a swift horse; mount him and dash off; perhaps 
they will spare me, but you cannot help me by staying." 

'« Your offer is a kind one," said Carson much touched 
by the words of his young friend; "but nothing in the 
world would induce me to leave you. We will stick 
together and if we must die, why let's each take a war- 
rior with us." 

The leading warrior sauntered toward the couple, 
while they were hastily consulting together, after the 
manner of one who felt he was master of the situation. 
A broad grin stretched across his painted face, as he 
extended one hand to salute Carson, while he reached 
for his rifle with the other. Just as his fingers were 
closing around the weapon of the mountaineer, the latter 
struck him a violent blow in the face, which sent him 
staggering several paces backward. The other Utahs 
instantly ran forward to the help of their comrade. 



132 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

When they were within a few rods, Carson brought his 
gun to his shoulder and peremptorily ordered them to 
halt. They hesitated, as if uncertain what to do, when 
he told them that if they advanced another step or made 
any hostile demonstration, both he and his companion 
would fire. They would be sure of hitting two of the 
warriors, when it would become something like an even 
fight, with two on each side, and with the prospect that 
the red men might suffer still further. 

But the Indians were not to be bluffed in such an easy 
fashion. They brandished their guns, shook powder in 
the pans and talked boastingly of what they meant to do. 
They were double the number of their enemies and they 
would teach them how brave Utah warriors were. 

Neither Carson nor the lad was disturbed by these 
demonstrations, which meant to intimidate them. The 
mountaineer whispered to his brave young companion to 
keep on his guard against any sudden rush or demonstra- 
tion. But the lad scarcely needed the warning. He was 
as alert and vigilant as his friend. Had the red men 
attempted anything hostile, the two would have fired 
instantly and then drawn their pistols and been ready for 
the others. 

The Utahs finally saw it was useless to attempt to 
bluff the man and boy, and they rode away without offer- 
ing them the least harm. Carson and his young com- 
panion instantly resumed their journey, still watchful and 
alert ; but they reached Bent's Fort without molestation, 
and the dangerous venture was over. 



CHAPTER XXII. 

Kit Carson Hears Surprising News — He Visits Fremont — Is Re- 
engaged as Guide — Fremont's Account of his Visit to Salt Lake. 

Kit Carson was astonished on reaching Bent's Fort to 
learn that Lieutenant Fremont had gone by on his second 
exploring expedition but a few days before. Carson felt 
a strong attachment for his old leader and galloped nearly 
a hundred miles to overtake him. Fremont gave the 
mountaineer most cordial greeting and insisted so 
strongly on his accompanying him that Carson could not 
refuse. 

The object of Fremont's second exploration was to 
connect the survey of the previous year with those of 
Commander Wilkes on the Pacific coast. The first 
objective point was the Great Salt Lake of Utah, of 
which very little was known at that time. 

Carson was sent back to the fort to procure a number 
of mules. He did as directed and rejoined Fremont at 
St. Vrain's Fort. The region traversed by these explorers 
is so well known to-day that it is hard to realize what a 
terra incognita it was but a short time since. Perhaps it 
will be most instructive at this point to quote the words 
of the great Pathfinder himself. The party arrived on 
the 2 1 St of August on the Bear River, one of the princi- 

133 



134 Z/i^^" OF KIT CARSON. 

pal tributaries of Great Salt Lake. The narrative of 
Fremont proceeds : 

"We were now entering a region, which for us, pos- 
sessed a strange and extraordinary interest. We were 
upon the waters of the famous lake which forms a salient 
point among the remarkable geographical features of the 
country, and around which the vague and superstitious 
accounts of the trappers had thrown a delightful obscurity, 
which we anticipated pleasure in dispelling, but which, in 
the meantime, left a crowded field for the exercise of our 
imagination. 

" In our occasional conversations with the few old 
hunters who had visited the region, it had been a subject 
of frequent speculation; and the wonders which they 
related were not the less agreeable because they were 
highly exaggerated and impossible. 

" Hitherto this lake had been seen only by trappers, 
who were wandering through the country in search of 
new beaver streams, caring very little for geography; its 
islands had never been visited ; and none were to be found 
who had entirely made the circuit of its shores, and no 
instrumental observations, or geographical survey of any 
description, had ever been made anywhere in the neigh- 
boring region. It was generally supposed that it had no 
visible outlet; but, among the trappers, including those in 
my own camp, were many who believed that somewhere 
on its surface was a terrible whirlpool, through which its 
waters found their way to the ocean by some subterranean 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 135 

communication. All these things had been made a fre- 
quent subject of discussion in our desultory conversations 
around the fires at night; and my own mind had become 
tolerably well filled with their indefinite pictures, and 
insensibly colored with their romantic descriptions, which, 
in the pleasure of excitement, I was well disposed to 
believe, and half expected to realize. 

" In about six miles' travel from our encampment we 
reached one of the points in our journey to which we had 
always looked forward with great interest — the famous 
Beer Springs, which, on account of the effervescing gas 
and acid taste, had received their name from the voy- 
ageurs and trappers of the country, who, in the midst of 
their rude and hard lives, are fond of finding some fancied 
resemblance to the luxuries they rarely have the good 
fortune to enjoy. 

"Although somewhat disappointed in the expectations 
which various descriptions had led me to form of unusual 
beauty of situation and scenery, I found it altogether a 
place of very great interest; and a traveller for the first 
time in a volcanic region remains in a constant excite- 
ment, and at every step is arrested by something remark- 
able and new. There is a confusion of interesting 
objects gathered together in a small space. Around the 
place of encampment the Beer Springs were numerous ; 
but, as far as we could ascertain, were entirely confined 
to that locality in the bottom. In the bed of the river 
in front, for a space of several hundred yards, they were 



17,6 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

very abundant; the effervescing gas rising up and agi- 
tating the water in countless bubbling columns. In 
the vicinity round about were numerous springs of an 
entirely different and equally marked mineral char- 
acter. In a rather picturesque spot, about 1,300 yards 
below our encampment and immediately on the river 
bank, is the most remarkable spring of the place. In 
an opening on the rock, a white column of scattered 
water is thrown up, in form, like dijet-d'eau, to a variable 
height of about three feet, and, though it is maintained 
in a constant supply, its greatest height is attained only 
at regular intervals, according to the action of the force 
below. It is accompanied by a subterranean noise, which, 
together with the motion of the water, makes very much 
the impression of a steamboat in motion; and, without 
knowing that it had been already previous/y so called, we 
gave to it the name of the Steamboat Spring. The rock 
through which it is forced is slightly raised in a convex 
manner, and gathered at the opening into an urn-mouthed 
form, and is evidently formed by continued deposition 
from the water, and colored bright red by oxide of iron. 

" It is a hot spring, and the water has a pungent, disa- 
greeable metallic taste, leaving a burning effect on the 
tongue. Within perhaps two yards of th^^jet-d'eau, is a 
small hole of about an inch in diameter, through which, at 
regular intervals, escapes a blast of hot air with a light 
wreath of smoke, accompanied by ? regular noise. 

"As they approached the lake, they passed over a 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 1 37 

country of bold and striking scenery, and through several 
'gates,' as they called certain narrow valleys. The 
' standing rock ' is a huge column, occupying the centre 
of one of these passes. It fell from a height of perhaps 
3,000 feet, and happened to remain in its present upright 
position. 

" At last, on the 6th of September, the object for which 
their eyes had long been straining was brought to view. 

" September 6. — This time we reached the butte without 
any difficulty; and ascending to the summit, immediately 
at our feet beheld the object of our anxious search, the 
waters of the Inland Sea, stretching in still and solitary 
grandeur, far beyond the limit of our vision. It was one 
of the great points of the exploration ; and as we looked 
eagerly over the lake in the first emotions of excited 
pleasure, I am doubtful if the followers of Balboa felt 
more enthusiasm when, from the heights of the Andes, 
they saw for the first time the great Western Ocean. It 
was certainly a magnificent object, and a noble terminus 
to this part of our expedition ; and to travellers so long 
shut up among mountain ranges, a sudden view over the 
expanse of silent waters had in it something sublime. 
Several large islands raised their high rocky heads out of 
the waves ; but whether or not they were timbered was 
still left to our imagination, as the distance was too great 
to determine if the dark hues upon them were woodland 
or naked rock. During the day the clouds had been 
gathering black over the mountains to the westward, and 



138 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

while we were looking, a storm burst down with sudden 
fury upon the lake, and entirely hid the islands from our 
view. 

"On the edge of the stream a favorable spot was 
selected in a grove, and felling the timber, we made a 
strong corral^ or horse-pen, for the animals, and a little 
fort for the people who were to remain. We were now 
probably in the country of the Utah Indians, though none 
reside upon the lake. The India-rubber boat was repaired 
with prepared cloth and gum, and filled with air, in read- 
iness for the next day. 

" The provisions which Carson had brought with him 
being now exhausted, and our stock reduced to a small 
quantity of roots, I determined to retain with me only a 
sufficient number of men for the execution of our design ; 
and accordingly seven were sent back to Fort Hall, under 
the guidance of Francois Lajeunesse, who, having been 
for many years a trapper in the country, was an experi- 
enced mountaineer. 

" We formed now but a small family. With Mr. Preuss 
and myself, Carson, Bernier, and Basil Lajeunesse had 
been selected for the boat expedition — the first ever 
attempted on this interior sea; and Badau, with Derosier, 
and Jacob (the colored man), were to be left in charge of 
the camp. We were favored with most delightful 
weather. To-night there was a brilliant sunset of golden 
orange and green, which left the westen sky clear and 
beautifully pure ; but clouds in the east made me lose an 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 1 39 

occulation. The summer frogs were singing around us^ 
and the evening was very pleasant, with a temperature oi 
60° — a night of a more southern autumn. For our sup- 
per, we had yampah, the most agreeably flavored of the 
roots, seasoned by a small fat duck, which had come in 
the way of Jacob's rifle. Around our fire to-night were 
many speculations on what to-morrow would bring forth ; 
and in our busy conjectures we fancied that we should 
find every one of the large islands a tangled wilderness of 
trees and shrubbery, teeming with game of every descrip- 
tion that the neighboring region afforded, and which the 
foot of a white man or Indian had never violated. Fre- 
quently, during the day, clouds had rested on the sum- 
mits of their lofty mountains, and we believed that we 
should find clear streams and springs of fresh water ; and 
we indulged in anticipations of the luxurious repasts 
with which we were to indemnify ourselves for past priva- 
tions. Neither, in our discussions, were the whirlpool 
and other mysterious dangers forgotten, which Indian and 
hunter's stories attributed to this unexplored lake. The 
men had discovered that, instead of being strongly sewed, 
(like that of the preceding year, which had so triump- 
hantly rode the canons of the Upper Great Platte), our 
present boat was only pasted together in a very insecure 
manner, the maker having been allowed so little time in 
the construction that he was obliged to crowd the labor 
of two months into several days. The insecurity of the 
boat was sensibly felt by us ; and mingled with the 



f40 LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

enthusiasm and excitement that we all felt at the pros, 
pect of an undertaking which had never before been 
accomplished was a certain impression of danger, suffi- 
cient to give a serious character to our conversation. 
The momentary view which had been had of the lake the 
day before, its great extent and rugged islands, dimly 
seen amidst the dark waters in the obscurity of the sud- 
den storm, were well calculated to heighten the idea of 
undefined danger with which the lake was generally assc 
ciated." 

" September 8. — A calm, clear day, with a sunrise tem- 
perature of 41°. In view of our present enterprise, a 
part of the equipment of the boat had been made to consist 
of three air-tight bags, about three feet long, and capable 
each of containing five gallons. These had been filled 
with water the night before, and were now placed in the 
boat, with our blankets and instruments, consisting of a 
sextant, telescope, spy-glass, thermometer, and barom- 
eter. 

" In the course of the morning we discovered that two 
of the cylinders leaked so much as to require one man 
constantly at the bellows, to keep them sufficiently full 
of air to support the boat. Although we had made a 
very early start, we loitered so much on the way — stop- 
ping every now and then, and floating silently along, to 
get a shot at a goose or a duck — that it was late in the 
day when he reached the outlet. The river here divided 
into several branches, filled with fluvials, and so very 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 14I 

shallow that it was with difficulty we could get the boat 
along, being obhged to get out and wade. We encamped 
on a low point among rushes and young willows, where 
there was a quantity of driftwood, which served for our 
fires. The evening was mild and clear; we made a 
pleasant bed of the young willows ; and geese and ducks 
enough had been killed for an abundant supper at night, 
and for breakfast next morning. The stillness of the 
night was enlivened by millions of water-fowl. 

*' September. 9. — The day was clear and calm; the ther- 
mometer at sunrise at 49°. As is usual with the trap- 
pers on the eve of any enterprise, our people had made 
dreams, and their's happened to be a bad one — one which 
always preceded evil — and consequently they looked very 
gloomy this morning ; but we hurried through our break- 
fast, in order to make an early start, and have all the day 
before us for our adventure. The channel in a short 
distance became so shallow that our navigation was at an 
end, being merely a sheet of soft mud, with a few inches 
of water, and sometimes none at all, forming the low- 
water shore of the lake. All this place was absolutely 
covered with flocks of screaming plover. We took off 
our clothes, and, getting overboard, commenced drag- 
ging the boat — making, by this operation, a very curious 
trail, and a very disagreeable smell in stirring up the mud, 
as we sank above the knee at every step. The water 
here was still fresh, with only an insipid and disagreeable 
taste, probably derived from the bed of fetid mud. After 



142 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

proceeding in this way about a mile, we came to a small 
black ridge on the bottom, beyond which the water 
became suddenly salt, beginning gradually to deepen, and 
the bottom was sandy and firm. It was a remarkable 
division, separating the fresh water of the rivers from the 
briny water of the lake, which was entirely saturated 
with common salt. Pushing our little vessel across the 
narrow boundary, we sprang on board, and at length 
were afloat on the waters of the unknown sea. 

*'VVe did not steer for the mountainous islands, but 
directed our course towards a lower one, which it had 
been decided we should first visit, the summit of which 
was formed like the crater at the upper end of Bear 
River Valley. So long as we could touch the bottom 
with our paddles, we were very gay ; but gradually, as 
the water deepened, we became more still in our frail bat- 
teau of gum cloth distended with air, and with pasted 
seams. Although the day was very calm, tliere was a 
considerable swell on the lake ; and there were white 
patches of foam on the surface, which were slowly mov- 
ing to the southward, indicating the set of a current in 
that direction, and recalling the recollection of the whirl- 
pool stories. The water continued to deepen as we 
advanced ; the lake becoming almost transparently clear, 
of an extremely beautiful bright green color ; and the 
spray, which was thrown into the boat and over our 
clothes, was directly converted into a crust of common 
salt, which covered also our hands and arms. ' Captain,' 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 143 

said Carson, who for sometime had been looking suspi- 
ciously at some whitening appearances outside the near- 
est islands, * what are those yonder ? — won't you just 
take a look with the glass ? ' We ceased paddling for a 
moment, and found them to be the caps of the waves 
that were beginning to break under the force of a strong 
breeze that was coming up the lake. The form of the 
boat seemed to be an admirable one, and it rode on the 
waves like a water bird ; but, at the same time, it was 
extremely slow in its progress. When we were a little 
more than half way across the reach, two of the divisions 
between the cylinders gave way, and it required the con- 
stant use of the bellows to keep in a sufficient quantity of 
air. For a long time we scarcely seemed to approach 
our island, but gradually we worked across the rougher 
sea of the open channel, into the smoother water under 
the lee of the island, and began to discover that what we 
took for a long row of pelicans, ranged on the beach, 
were only low cliffs whitened with salt by the spray of 
the waves ; and about noon we reached the shore, the 
transparency of the water enabling us to see the bottom 
at a considerable depth. 

" The cliffs and masses of rock along the shore were 
whitened by an incrustation of salt where the waves 
dashed up against them; and the evaporating water, 
which had been left in holes and hollows on the surface 
of the rocks, was covered with a crust of salt about one 
eighth of an inch in thickness. 



144 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

" Carrying with us the barometer and other instru- 
ments, in the afternoon we ascended to the highest point 
of the island — a bare, rocky peak, 800 feet above the 
lake. Standing on the summit, we enjoyed an extended 
view of the lake, inclosed in a basin of rugged moun- 
tains, which sometimes left marshy flats and extensive 
bottoms between them and the shore, and in other places 
came directly down into the water with bold and precipi- 
tous bluffs. 

'* As we looked over the vast expanse of water spread 
out beneath us, and strained our eyes along the silent 
shores over which hung so much doubt and uncertainty, 
and which were so full of interest to us, I could hardly 
repress the almost irresistible desire to continue our 
exploration ; but the lengthening snow on the moun- 
tains was a plain indication of the advancing season, and 
our frail linen boat appeared so insecure that I was 
unwilling to trust our lives to the uncertainties of the 
lake. I therefore unwillingly resolved to terminate our 
survey here, and remain satisfied for the present with 
what we had been able to add to the unknown geography 
of the region. We felt pleasure also in remembering that 
we were the first who, in the traditionary annals of the 
country, had visited the islands, and broken, with the 
cheerful sound of human voices, the long solitude of the 
place. 

'*1 accidentally left on the summit the brass cover to 
the object end of my spy-glass ; and as it will probably 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. I45 

remain there undisturbed by Indians, it will furnish mat- 
ter of speculation to some future traveller. In our excur- 
sions about the island, we did not meet with any kind of 
animal; a magpie, and another larger bird, probably 
attracted by the smoke of our fire, paid us a visit from the 
shore, and were the only living things seen during our 
stay. The rock constituting the cliffs along the shore 
where we were encamped, is a talcous rock, or steatite, 
with brown spar. 

"At sunset, the temperature was 70°, We had arrived 
just in time to obtain a meridian altitude of the sun, and 
other observations were obtained this evening, which 
place our camp in latitude 41° 10^42'', and longitude 
112° 21' 05'' from Greenwich. From a discussion of the 
barometrical observations made during our stay on the 
shores of the lake, we have adopted 4,200 feet for its ele- 
vation above the Gulf of Mexico. In the first disap- 
pointment we felt from the dissipation of our dream ol 
the fertile islands, I called this Disappointment Island. 

"Out of the driftwood, we made ourselves pleasant 
little lodges, open to the water, and, after having kindled 
large fires to excite the wonder of any straggling savage 
on the lake shores, lay down, for the first time in a long 
journey, in perfect security; no one thinking about his 
arms. The evening was extremely bright and pleasant ; 
but the wind rose during the night, and the waves began 
to break heavily on the shore, making our island tremble. 
I had not expected in our inland journey to hear the roar 
10 



146 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

of an ocean surf; and the strangeness of our situation, and 
the excitement we felt in the associated interests of the 
place, made this one of the most interesting nights I 
remember during our long expedition. 

" In the morning, the surf was breaking heavily on the 
shore, and we were up early. The lake was dark and 
agitated, and we hurried through our scanty breakfast, and 
embarked — having first filled one of the buckets with 
water from which it was intended to make salt. The sun 
had risen by the time we were ready to start ; and it was 
blowing a strong gale of wind, almost directly off the 
shore, and raising a considerable sea, in which our boat 
strained very much. It roughened as we got away from 
the island, and it required all the efforts of the men to 
make any head against the wind and sea ; the gale rising 
with the sun ; and there was danger of being blown into 
one of the open reaches beyond the island. At the dis- 
tance of half a mile from the beach, the depth of water 
was sixteen feet, with a clay bottom ; but, as the working 
of the boat was very severe labor, and during the opera- 
tion of sounding, it was necessary to cease paddling, dur- 
ing which the boat lost considerable way, I was unwill- 
ing to discourage the men, and reluctantly gave up my 
intention of ascertaining the depth and character of the 
bed. There was a general shout in the boat when we 
found ourselves in one fathom, and we soon after landed 
on a low point of mud, where we unloaded the boat, and 
carried the baggage to firmer ground." 



CHAPTER XXIII. 

The Return — Suffering for Food — A Royal Feast — On the Lewis 
Fork — Fort Hall — Division of the Party — Arrival at Dalles — 
The Sierra Nevada— Preparations for the Passage Through the 
Mountains — Fremont's Account. 

The explorers remained in camp the next day and 
boiled down some of the water from the lake, thereby 
obtaining considerable salt. The following morning was 
clear and beautiful and they returned by the same route, 
ascending the valley of Bear River toward the north. 

The expected Fitzpatrick and the provisions did not 
show themselves and the party began to suffer for food. 
When their situation became serious, Fremont permitted 
a horse to be killed and then all enjoyed one of their old- 
fashioned feasts. 

But this supply could not last long, and still they failed 
to meet their expected friends. After a time they 
encountered an Indian who had killed an antelope, which 
they quickly purchased and another feast made every 
heart glad. By way of dessert, a messenger galloped 
into camp with the news that Fitzpatrick was close at 
hand with an abundant supply of provisions. 

The next morning the two parties united and continued 
the journey together. After leaving the Bear River Valley 
they crossed over to Lewis's Fork of the Columbia. At 

147 



148 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

night the camp fires of the Indian twinkled Hke so many 
stars along the mountain side ; but they were all friendly 
and the tired explorers slept peacefully. 

Pushing onward they reached the upper waters of 
Lewis's Fork, where snow began to fall. However, they 
were quite near Fort Hall and they therefore went into 
camp, while Fremont rode to the fort and procured several 
horses and oxen. 

The weather continued severe, but Fremont determined 
to push on, despite the hardships which he knew awaited 
them all. As a matter of prudence, however, he sent 
back eleven of his men, leaving about twenty with which 
he pursued his journey down the river valley in the direc- 
tion of the Columbia. The Dalles was reached in safety 
where Kit Carson was left in command of the party, while 
Fremont with a few companions, pushed on to Vancouver 
Island, where he procured some provisions. On his 
return, the whole party united and made their way to 
Tlamath Lake, in what was then Oregon Territory. 
When their observations were completed, they took up 
their march in the direction of California. 

After a long and wearisome journey, attended by much 
suffering for the lack of food, they came in sight of the 
Sierra Nevada Mountains, which were seen to be covered 
with snow. The men were in a sorry plight. The pro- 
visions were nearly gone; they could not turn back, and 
there seemed but two alternatives before them : to push on 
through the mountains or remain where they were and 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 149 

starve to death. Such men were not the ones to fold 
their hands and lie down in helpless despair. Accord- 
ingly, they made their preparations for the terrible ven- 
ture. 

The snow was so deep that it was impossible to get 
forward without the aid of snow shoes. Devoting them- 
selves to the manufacture of these indispensable articles, 
a few were sent ahead to learn how far it was necessary 
to break a path for the animals. After a laborious pass- 
age, it was found that nine miles would have to be pre- 
pared in that fashion. Carson was with this advance and 
when they halted, he saw in the distance the green Sac- 
ramento Valley. Although nearly twenty years had 
passed since he visited that section, he recognized it at 
once. Away beyond towered the white peaks of the 
Coast Range. Carson was the only man in the party who 
really knew where they were. 

This passage of Fremont and his men through the 
Sierra Nevada Mountains is one of the most extraordi- 
nary achievements in American history. Carson himself 
took such a prominent part in it, that it seems only just 
that Fremont's thrilling account should be quoted. 

'* The people were unusually silent ; for every man 
knew that our enterprise was hazardous, and the issue 
doubtful. 

"The snow deepened rapidly, and it soon became 
necessary to break a road. For this service, a party of 
ten was formed, mounted on the strongest horses ; each 



I50 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

man in succession opening the road on foot, or on horse 
back, until himself and his horse became fatigued, when 
he stepped aside ; and, the remaining number passing 
ahead, he took his station in the rear. 

" The camp had been all the day occupied in endeavor- 
ing to ascend the hill, but only the best horses had suc- 
ceeded ; the animals, generally, not having sufficient 
strength to bring themselves up without the packs ; and 
all the line of road between this and the springs was 
strewed with camp stores and equipage, and horses floun- 
dering in snow. I therefore immediately encamped on 
the ground with my own mess, which was in advance, 
and directed Mr. Fitzpatrick to encamp at the springs, 
and send all the animals, in charge of Tabeau, with a 
strong guard, back to the place where they had been 
pastured the night before. Here was a small spot of 
level ground, protected on one side by the mountain, and 
on the other sheltered by a little ridge of rock. It was 
an open grove of pines, which assimilated in size to the 
grandeur of the mountain, being frequently six feet in 
diameter. 

** To-night we had no shelter, but we made a large fire 
around the trunk of one of the huge pines ; and covering 
the snow with small boughs, on which we spread our 
blankets, soon made ourselves comfortable. The night 
was very bright and clear, though the thermometer was 
only at I0°. A strong wind which sprang up at sun 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 151 

down, made it intensely cold ; and this was one of the 
bitterest nights during the journey. 

" Two Indians joined our party here ; and one of 
them, an old man, immediately began to harangue us, 
saying that ourselves and animals would perish in the 
snow ; and that, if we would go back, he would show us 
another and a better way across the mountain. He spoke 
in a very loud voice, and there was a singular repetition 
of phrases and arrangement of words, which rendered 
his speech striking, and not unmusical. 

" We had now begun to understand some words, and, 
with the aid oi signs, easily comprehended the old man's 
simple ideas. ' Rock upon rock — rock upon rock — snow 
upon snow — snow upon snow,' said he; 'even if you get 
over the snow, you will not be able to get down from the 
mountains.' He made us the sign of precipices, and 
showed us how the feet of the horses would slip, and throw 
them off from the narrow trails led along their sides. Our 
Chinook, who comprehended even more readily than 
ourselves, and believed our situation hopeless, covered 
his head with his blanket, and began to weep and 
lament. ' I wanted to see the whites,' said he ; * I came 
away from my own people to see the whites, and I 
wouldn't care to die among them ; but here' — and he 
looked around into the cold night and gloomy forest, and, 
drawing his blanket over his head, began again to 
lament. 

** Seated around the tree, the fire illuminating the rocks 



152 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

and the tall bolls of the pines round about, and the old 
Indian haranguing, we presented a group of very serious 
faces. 

" February 5. — The night had been too cold to sleep, 
and we were up very early. Our guide was standing by 
the fire with all his finery on ; and seeing him shiver in 
the cold, I threw on his shoulders one of my blankets. 
We missed him a few minutes afterwards, and never saw 
him again. He had deserted. His bad faith and treach- 
ery were in perfect keeping with the estimate of Indian 
character, which a long intercourse with this people had 
gradually forced upon my mind. 

''While a portion of the camp were occupied in bring- 
ing up the baggage to this point, the remainder were 
busied in making sledges and snow shoes. I had deter- 
mined to explore the mountain ahead, and the sledges 
were to be used in transporting the baggage. 

" Crossing the open basin, in a march of about ten 
miles we reached the top of one of the peaks, to the left 
of the pass indicated by our guide. Far below us, 
dimmed by the distance, was a large, snowless valley, 
bounded on the western side, at the distance of about a 
hundred miles, by a low range of mountains, which Car- 
son recognized with delight as the mountains bordering 
the coast. ' There,' said he, * is the little mountain — it is 
fifteen years ago since I saw it ; but I am just as sure as 
if I had seen it yesterday.' Between us, then, and this 
low coast range, was the valley of the Sacramento ; and 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 153 

no one who had not accompanied us through the inci- 
dents of our life for the last few months, could realize the 
delight with which at last we looked down upon it. At 
the distance of apparently thirty miles beyond us were 
distinguished spots of prairie ; and a dark line, which 
could be traced with the glass, was imagined to be the 
course of the river ; but we were evidently at a great 
height above the valley, and between us and the plains 
extended miles of snowy fields and broken ridges of pine- 
covered mountains. 

" It was late in the day when we turned towards the 
camp; and it grew rapidly cold as it drew towards night. 
One of the men became fatigued and his feet began to 
freeze, and building a fire in the trunk of a dry old cedar, 
Mr. Fitzpatrick remained with him until his clothes 
could be dried, and he was in a condition to come on. 
After a day's march of twenty miles, we straggled into 
camp, one after another, at nightfall ; the greater number 
excessively fatigued, only two of the party having evef 
travelled on snow-shoes before. 

" All our energies were now directed to getting our 
animals across the snow ; and it was supposed that, after 
all the baggage had been drawn with the sleighs over the 
trail we had made, it would be sufficiently hard to bear 
our animals. 

"At several places, between this point and the ridge, 
we had discovered some grassy spots, where the wind 
and sun had dispersed the snow from the sides of the 



154 ^^^^ O^ ^^^ CARSON. 

mils, and these were to lorm resting piace to support the 
animals for a night in their passage across. On our way 
across, we had set on fire several broken stumps and dried 
trees, to melt holes in the snow for the camp. Its gen- 
eral depth was five feet; but we passed over places 
where it was twenty feet deep, as shown by the trees. 

" With one party drawing sleighs loaded with baggage, 
I advanced to-day about four miles along the trail, and 
encamped at the first grassy spot, where we expected to 
bring our horses. Mr. Fitzpatrick, with another party, 
remained behind, to form an intermediate station between 
us and the animals. 

" Putting on our snow-shoes, we spent the afternoon in 
exploring a road ahead. The glare of the snow, com- 
bined with great fatigue, had rendered many of the peo- 
ple nearly blind ; but we were fortunate in having some 
black silk handkerchiefs, which, worn as veils, very much 
relieved the eye. 

"In the evening I received a message from Mr. Fitz- 
patrick, acqainting me with the utter failure of his 
attempt to get our mules and horses over the snow — the 
half-hidden trail had proved entirely too slight to support 
them, and they had broken through, and were plunging 
about or lying half buried in snow. He was occupied in 
endeavoring to get them back to his camp ; and in the 
mean time sent to me for further instructions. I wrote to 
him to send the animals immediately back to their old 
pastures ; and, after having made mauls and shovels, turn 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 1 55 

in all the strength of his party to open and beat a road 
through the snow, strengthening it with branches and 
boughs of the pines. 

" February 12. — We made mauls, and worked hard at 
our end of the road all the day. The wind was high, 
but the sun bright, and the snow thawing. We worked 
down the face of the hill, to meet the people at the other 
end. Towards sundown it began to grow cold, and we 
shouldered our mauls, and trudged back to camp. 

'^ February I J. — We continued to labor on the road; 
and in the course of the day had the satisfaction to see 
the people working down the face of the opposite hill, 
about three miles distant. During the morning we had 
the pleasure of a visit from Mr. Fitzpatrick, with the infor- 
mation that all was going on well. A party of Indians 
had passed on snow-shoes, who said they were going to 
the western side of the mountain after fish. This was an 
indication that the salmon were coming up the streams ; 
and we could hardly restrain our impatience as we thought 
of them, and worked with increased vigor. 

" I was now perfectly satisfied that we had struck the 
stream on which Mr. Sutter lived, and turning about, 
made a hard push, and reached the camp at dark. Here 
we had the pleasure to find all the remaining animals, 
fifty-seven in number, safely arrived at the grassy hill 
near the camp; and here, also, we were agreeably sur- 
prised with the sight of an abundance of salt. Some of 
the horse guard had gone to a neighboring hut for pine 



156 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

nuts, and discovered unexpectedly a large cake of veiy 
white fine-grained salt, which the Indians told them they 
had brought from the other side of the mountain ; they 
used it to eat with their pine nuts, and readily sold it for 
goods. 

•' On the 19th, the people were occupied in making a 
road and bringing up the baggage ; and, on the afternoon 
of the next day, February 20, i8^y we encamped with 
all the materiel of the camp, on the summit of the Pass 
in the dividing ridge, i,cxx) miles by our travelled road 
from the Dalles of the Columbia. 

^* February 21. — We now considered ourselves victorious 
over the mountain ; having only the descent before us, 
and the valley under our eyes, we felt strong hope that we 
should force our way down. But this was a case in which 
the descent was not facile. Still, deep fields of snow lay 
between, and there was a large intervening space of 
rough-looking mountains, through which we had yet to 
wind our way. Carson roused me this morning with an 
early fire, and we were all up long before day, in order to 
pass the snow fields before the sun should render the 
crust soft. We enjoyed this morning a scene at sunrise, 
which, even here, was unusually glorious and beautiful. 
Immediately above the eastern mountains was repeated a 
cloud-formed mass of purple ranges, bordered with bright 
yellow gold; the peaks shot up into a narrow line of 
crimson cloud, above which the air was filled with a 
greenish orange ; and over all was the singular beauty of 



LIFE OF KIT CARSOM, 1 57 

the blue sky. Passing along a ridge which commanded 
the lake on our right, of which we began to discover an 
outlet through a chasm on the west, we passed over 
alternating open ground and hard crusted snow-fields 
which supported the animals, and encamped on the ridge 
after a journey of six miles. The grass was better than 
we had yet seen, and we were encamped in a clump of 
trees, tw«nty or thirty feet high, resembling white pine." 



CHAPTER XXIV. 

Continuation of Fremont's Account of the Passage Through the 
Mountains. 

"We had hard and doubtful labor yet before us, as the 
snow appeared to be heavier where the timber began 
further down, with few open spots. Ascending a height, 
we traced out the best line we could discover for the next 
day's march, and had at least the consolation to see that 
the mountain descended rapidly. The day had been one 
of April ; gusty, with a few occasional flakes of snow ; 
which, in the afternoon enveloped the upper mountains 
in clouds. We watched them anxiously, as now we 
dreaded a snow storm. Shortly afterwards we heard the 
roll of thunder, and looking toward the valley, found it 
all enveloped in a thunder-storm. For us, as connected 
with the idea of summer, it had a singular charm ; and 
we watched its progress with excited feelings until nearly 
sunset, when the sky cleared off brightly, and we saw a 
shining line of water directing its course towards another, 
a broader and larger sheet. We knew that these could 
be no other than the Sacramento and the bay of San 
Francisco ; but, after our long wandering in rugged 
mountains, where so frequently we had met with disap- 
pointments, and where the crossing of every ridge dis- 
IS8 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 1 59 

played some unknown lake or river, we were yet almost 
afraid to believe that we were at last to escape into the 
genial country of which we have heard so many glowing 
descriptions, and dreaded again to find some vast interior 
lake, whose bitter waters would bring us disappointment 
On the southern shore of what appeared to be the bay, 
could be traced the gleaming line where entered another 
large stream ; and again the Buenaventura rose up in our 
mind. 

'< Carson had entered the valley along the southern side 
of the bay, but the country then was so entirely covered 
with water from snow and rain, that he had been able to 
form no correct impression of watercourses. 

" We had the satisfaction to know that at least there 
were people below. Fires were lit up in the valley just 
at night, appearing to be in answer to ours ; and these 
signs of life renewed, in some measure, the gayety of the 
camp. They appeared so near, that we judged them ta 
be among the timber of some of the neighboring ridges ; 
but, having them constantly in view day after day, and 
night after night, we afterwards found them to be fires 
that had been kindled by the Indians among the tulares, 
on the shore of the bay, eighty miles distant. 

" Axes and mauls were necessary to-day to make a 
road through the snow. Going ahead with Carson to 
reconnoitre the road, we reached in the afternoon the 
river which made the outlet of the lake. Carson sprang 
over, clear across a place where the stream was com* 



l60 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

pressed among rocks, but the parfleche sole of my moc-. 
casin glanced from the icy rock, and precipitated me into 
the river. It was some few seconds before I coukl 
recover myself in the current, and Carson, thinking mc 
hurt, jumped in after me, and we both had an icy bath. 
We tried to search a while for my gun, which had been 
lost in the fall, but the cold drove us out ; and making a 
large fire on the bank, after we had partially dried our- 
selves we went back to meet the camp. We afterwards 
found that the gun had been slung under the ice which 
lined the banks of the creek. 

" The sky was clear and pure, with a sharp wind from 
the northeast, and the thermometer 2° below the freezing 
point. 

" We continued down the south face of the mountain j 
our road leading over dry ground, we were able to avoid 
the snow almost entirely. In the course of the morning 
we struck a foot path, which we were generally able to 
keep; and the ground was soft to our animals feet, being 
sandy or covered with mould. Green grass began to 
make its appearance, and occasionally we passed a hill 
scatter! ngly covered with it. The character of the forest 
continued the same ; and, among the trees, the pine with 
sharp leaves and very large cones was abundant, some of 
them being noble trees. We measured one that had te« 
feet diameter, though the height was not more than one 
hundred and thirty feet. All along, the river was a roar- 
ing torrent, its fall very great ; and, descending with a 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. l6l 

rapidity to which we had long been strangers, to our 
great pleasure oak trees appeared on the ridge, and soon 
became very frequent ; on these I remarked unusually 
great quantities of misletoe. 

" The opposite mountain side was very steep and con- 
tinuous — unbroken by ravines, and covered with pines 
and snow ; while on the side we were travelling, innumer- 
able rivulets poured down from the ridge. Continuing 
on, we halted a moment at one of these rivulets, to 
admire some beautiful evergreen trees, resembling hve 
oak, which shaded the little stream. They were forty to 
fifty feet high, and two in diameter, with a uniform tufted 
top; and the summer green of their beautiful foliage, 
with the singing birds, and the sweet summer wind which 
was whirling about the dry oak leaves, nearly intoxicated 
us with delight ; and we hurried on, filled with excite- 
ment, to escape entirely from the horrid region of inhos- 
pitable snow, to the perpetual spring of the Sacramento. 

'' February 2^. — Believing that the difficulties of the 
road were passed, and leaving Mr. Fitzpatrick to follow 
slowly, as the condition of the animals required, I started 
ahead this morning with a party of eight, consisting 
(with myself) of Mr. Preuss, and Mr. Talbot, Carson, 
Derosier, Towns, Proue, and Jacob. We took with us 
some of the best animals, and my intention was to pro- 
ceed as rapidly as possible to the house of Mr. Sutter, 
and return to meet the party with a supply of provisions 
and fresh animals. 
II 



l€2 ' LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

** Near night fall we descended into the steep ravine of 
a handsome creek thirty feet wide, and I was engaged in 
getting the horses up the opposite hill, when I heard a 
shout from Carson, who had gone ahead a few hun- 
dred yards—* Life yet,' said he, as he came up, * life yet ; 
I have found a hillside sprinkled with grass enough for 
the night/ We drove along our horses, and encamped 
at the place about dark, and there was just room enough 
to make a place for shelter on the edge of the stream. 
Three horses were lost to-day — Proveau ; a fine young 
horse from the Columbia, belonging to Charles Towns ; 
and another Indian horse which carried our cooking 
utensils ; the two former gave out, and the latter strayed 
off into the woods as we reached the camp : and Derosier 
knowing my attachment to Proveau, volunteered to go 
and bring him in. 

*' Carson and I climbed one of the nearest mountains ; 
the forest land still extended ahead, and the valley 
appeared as far as ever. The pack horse was found near 
the camp, but Derosier did not get in. 

" We began to be uneasy at Derosier's absence, fear- 
ing he might have been bewildered in the woods, 
Charles Towns, who had not yet recovered his mind, 
went to swim in the river, as if it was summer, and the 
stream placid, when it was a cold mountain torrent foam- 
ing among the rocks. We were happy to see Derosier 
appear in the evening. He came in, and sitting down by 
the fire, began to tell us where he had been. He 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 163 

imagined he had been gone several days, and thought we 
were still at the camp where he had left us ; and we 
were pained to see ^hat his mind was deranged. It 
appeared that he had been lost in the mountain, and hun- 
ger and fatigue, joined to weakness of body, and fear of 
perishing in the mountains had crazed him. The times 
were severe when stout men lost their minds from 
extremity of suffering — when norses died — and when 
mules and horses, ready to die of starvation, were killed 
lor food. Yet there was no murmuring or hesitation 
In the meantime Mr. Preuss continued on down the 
river, and unaware that we had encamped so early in the 
day, was lost. When night arrived and he did not come 
in, we began to understand what had happened to him; 
but it was too late to make any search. 

" March j. — We followed Mr. Preuss's trail for a con. 
siderable distance along the river, until we reached & 
place where he had descended to the stream below and 
encamped. Here we shouted and fired guns, but 
received no answer; and we concluded that he had 
pushed on down the stream. I determined to keep out 
from the river, along which it was nearly impracticable to 
travel with animals, until it should form a valley. At 
every step the country improved in beauty; the pinea 
were rapidly disappearing, and oaks became the principal 
trees of the forest. Among these, the prevailing tree 
was the evergreen oak (which, by way of distinction, we 
shall call the live oak); and with these, occurred fre. 



l64 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

qucntly a new species of oak, bearing a long, slendef 
acorn, from an inch to an inch and a half in length, 
which we now began to see formed the principal vegetable 
food of the inhabitants of this region. In a short dis- 
tance we crossed a little rivulet, where were two old huts 
and near by were heaps of acorn hulls. The ground 
round about was verj' rich, covered with an exuberant 
sward of grass ; and we sa^ down for a while in the shade 
of the oaks to let the animals feed. We repeated our 
shouts for Mr. Preuss ; and this time we were gratified 
with an answer. The voice grew rapidly nearer, ascend- 
ing from the river, but when we expected to see him 
emerge, it ceased entirely. We had called up some strag- 
gling Indian — the first we had met, although for two 
days back we had seen tracks — who, mistaking us for his 
fellows, had been only undeceived by getting close up. 
It would have been pleasant to witness his astonishment; 
he would not have been more frightened had some of the 
old mountain spirits they are so much afraid of suddenly 
appeared in his path. Ignorant of the character of these 
people, we had now additional cause of uneasiness in 
regard to Mr. Preuss ; he had no arms with him, and we 
began to think his chance doubtful. Occasionally we 
met deer, but had not the necessary time for hunting. 
At one of these orchard grounds, we encamped about 
noon to make an effort for Mr. Preuss. One man took 
his way along a spur leading into the river, in hope to 
cross his trail; and another took our own back. Both 



UFE OF KIT CARSON, 165 

were volunteers ; and to the successful man was promised 
a pair of pistols — not as a reward, but as a token of 
gratitude for a service which would free us all from much 
anxiety." 

At the end of four days, Mr. Preuss surprised and 
delighted his friends by walking into camp. He had 
lived on roots and acorns and was in the last stages of 
exhaustion. 

Shortly the advance party reached Sutter's Fort where 
they received the most hospitable treatment. All their 
wants were abundantly supplied, and provisions were sent 
back to Fitzpatrick and his party. 



CHAPTER XXV. 

"^rhe Start Homeward — The Visitors in Camp and Their Story — 
Carson and Godey Start to the Rescue — Trailing the Enemy by 
Night — In Camp — ^The Attack — An Amazing Success — The 
Return. 

Fremont and his command remained at Sutter's Fort 
about a month, when their preparations were completed 
for their return to the States. They journeyed leisurely 
up the valley of the San Joaquin, crossing over the Sierra 
Nevada and Coast Range by means of an easily travelled 
pass. The latter chain was followed until they came 
upon the Spanish trail, along which they passed to the 
Mohave River. Where the Trail diverges from that 
stream, Carson became involved in a characteristic adven- 
ture. 

While in camp, two Mexicans, a man and a boy rode 
up and told a sad story. They belonged to a party of 
Mexican traders from New Mexico. Six of them, 
including two women who acted as cooks were left in 
charge of a band of horses while the rest were away, 
engaged in barter. When endeavoring to find better 
grazing for their animals and while the man and boy were 
on guard, they were attacked by a band of thirty 
Indians. 

The warriors were after the horses and their first dem- 
i66 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 1 6/ 

onstration was a flight of arrows. The only chance of 
escape was to make off with the animals and the two 
started them on a dead run straight toward the Indians. 
The charge was so impetuous, that they forced their way 
through, and continued their flight, while the warriors 
remained behind to massacre the others. 

When the couple had gone a long distance, they left 
the horses and turned back to look for their friends. 
While they were doing so, they came upon Fremont's 
camp. When it is added that among those who were 
left behind by the Mexicans, were the wife of the man 
and the father and mother of the boy. their pitiful situa- 
tion must touch the hearts of all. They were overcome 
with grief, and Carson was so stirred that he volunteered 
to go back with the couple and help rescue their friends 
if alive, or punish the Indians, if it should prove that they 
had been massacred. 

Richard Godey, a mountaineer almost the equal with 
Carson, willingly agreed to accompany him. The two 
were perfectly familiar with the country, which was an 
immense advantage. When the Mexicans described the 
spring, a long ways distant, where they had abandoned 
the horses to hunt for their friends, Carson recalled its 
exact location. It was about thirty miles away and he 
said that that was the point toward which they must push 
with all speed. 

Accordingly they turned the heads of their horses 
thither and struck into a sweeping gallop, resting only 



l68 LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

when compelled to do so, and reaching the spring at day- 
light the next morning. Not a horse was visible, but an 
examination of the ground showed that the Indians had 
followed the fleeing Mexicans and stock to the spring, 
■where, finding the animals, they had captured and driven 
them off in another direction. 

It seems like a piece of madness for three men to pur- 
sue ten times as many Indian warriors; but the blood of 
Carson was up and he told Godey it was too soon for 
them to turn back. The eyes of both flashed, when they 
reflected upon the shameful outrage, and they meant that 
the marauders should not get off scot free. 

As the boy was only an incumbrance, he was left 
behind, and, taking the trail of the warriors, the three put 
their horses to their best, confident the chase would be a 
long one. On such occasions, the red men are accus- 
tomed to travel a long distance before making a halt. 
With so much booty in their hands, they were liable to 
be set upon by others as savage as themselves, and they 
had every cause, therefore, to get out of the country with 
the least possible delay. 

The three were riding in this furious fashion, when 
most unexpectedly the steed of the Mexican gave out. 
A minute's examination showed he was as thoroughly 
used up and useless as the horse of the Ute Indian, years 
before, who started out with Kit to pursue the thief that 
was running off" with the animals. There was no course 
but to leave the Mexican behind, for time was too precious 



UFE OF KIT CARSON, 169 

to ride back to camp after another horse. He, therefore, 
was told to go back to Fremont's camp and await their 
return. 

The exploit of Carson and Godey, when calmly told, 
seems incredible. There was no one in Fremont's com- 
mand who would go with them, and though they knew 
there were a score and a half of savage wild men to 
encounter, they did not hesitate, but pressed their steeds 
to the utmost, eager to join in the fierce hand-to-hand 
conflict. 

When night shut in upon them, the Indians were not 
in sight and the signs indicated they were a good many 
miles ahead. There was no moon or stars and they 
could see only a few feet in advance of their horses' ears, 
but it would not do to linger. If they should go into 
camp, they would lose so much ground that pursuit was 
likely to be hopeless. 

Accordingly, they dismounted and leading their steeds, 
continued the pursuit on foot. Where it was impossible 
to see the ground, they depended on the sense of feeling. 
Quite certain of the general direction taken by the red 
men, they occasionally stooped down and passed their 
hands over the earth. The trail was so distinct that it 
could be readily detected in this manner, provided they 
had not gone astray. Several times they wandered to 
the right or left, but found their way back without diffi- 
culty, and the chase was continued for several hours in 
this singular fashion. 



I70 LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

After a time, the trail became so fresh that it could be 
readily detected and no doubt was left in their minds that 
they were close upon the marauders. Inasmuch as 
Carson and Godey had pushed their horses to the utmost, 
and they were showing signs of weariness, they con- 
cluded, in view of these facts, to halt and wait until day- 
light. 

The night was unusually cold, but they dared not start 
a fire, lest it should apprise their enemies of their presence. 
So they suffered in silence, miserable, wretched and as 
uncomfortable as it was possible to be, while watching 
for the growing light in the east. 

When at last, morning appeared, they were so chilled 
that they could hardly walk ; but making their way to the 
bottom of a ravine, they kindled a fire, and with the help 
of some violent exercise, managed to start their blood in 
circulation. 

In a very brief time, their horses were resaddled and 
they were galloping along the trail again. Within an 
hour, they caught sight of the Indians and the stolen 
animals. The warriors were in camp and were enjoying 
a breakfast of horse meat, several of the stock having 
been killed to furnish the food. 

Before the Indians could detect their pursuers, the lat- 
ter dismounted and hid their steeds where they were not 
likely to attract notice. They then started to crawl in 
among the stolen animals, which were grazing a short 
distance from camp. This was an exceedingly delicate 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 171 

task, for the horses were likely to give the alarm, even if 
the warriors did not detect their presence; but patience 
and skill succeeded, and, after a time, they were among 
the drove. 

But the very thing they dreaded took place. They had 
scarcely reached the animals, when one of them became 
frightened by the appearance of the strangers, and began 
rearing and snorting. This caused such confusion among 
the others that the Indians became alarmed and sprang 
to their feet. Carson and Godey emitted a series of yells 
that must have made the red men envious, and 
dashed at full speed toward the thirty Indians. The 
moment they were within range, both fired. Carson 
killed his man, but Godey missed. The latter reloaded 
with great quickness and fired again, bringing down his 
man. 

Meanwhile, the warriors were thrown into a sort of 
panic by the amazing audacity of their assailants. They 
could not have suspected the truth — that is that no others 
were near. They must have believed that a strong 
reserve was close at hand and that if they tarried in 
camp they would be overwhelmed by a party of avengers. 
Accordingly they broke and ran, leaving the daring 
mountaineers masters of the field. 

In accordance with the savage spirit of the border, 
Godey scalped the two Indians who had been shot, after 
which the horses were gathered together and driven to 
where the steeds of the mountaineers had been left. 



172 LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

But when this point was reached, Carson expressed 
himself as not P^tisfied : they had not ascertained the fate 
of the captives and they now proceeded to do so. 

In the camp of the Mexicans were found the mangled 
bodies of the two men. These were buried by Carson 
and Godey who made search for the women. Though 
nothing of them was discovered, it was afterwards learned 
that they, too, had been killed. Having done all that was 
possible, Carson and Godey made their way back to 
Fremont's camp, where the stolen property was turned 
over to the Mexicans, the daring mountaineers refusing 
to accept the slightest payment for their extraordinary 
services. 



CHAPTER XXVI. 

Arrival at Bent's Fort — Carson goes to Taos and Decides to 
Become a Farmer — Arrival of a Messenger from Fremont — 
Carson and Owens Repair Again to Bent's Fort — Carson Engages 
as Guide for Fremont's Third Exploring Expedition — On the 
Great Divide — Division of the Parties — The Journey Across the 
Desert — A Singular Meeting — Aboriginal Horse Thieves. 

After a tedious journey of many miles, the exploring 
party reached Bent's Fort July 2, 1844. The labors were 
considered finished, and bidding his old commander good- 
bye, Carson made his way to Taos, where he had a most 
happy reunion with his family. He was cordially wel- 
comed by hundreds of old friends who had learned years 
before the rare courage and worth of the man, and who 
were proud to possess such a neighbor. 

Carson had led a wild and adventurous career, and, after 
talking much with those in whom he had confidence, he 
decided to adopt the life of a farmer. In this conclusion 
he was joined by Richard Owens, an old mountaineer 
and an intimate associate for many years. 

It did not take them long to fix upon a desirable site, 
and, in the spring of 1845, stock and animals were bought, 
building commenced and everything was fairly under way. 
At the moment when the scarred mountaineers were 
counting with pleasure on the complete arrangements 



174 LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

made, an express messenger galloped up and handed 
Carson a letter. 

The contents were of an important character. Captain 
Fremont had written to notify Kit that he had started on 
J^Js third exploring expedition, and, inasmuch as the 
mountaineer had given his promise months before, that 
m the event of doing so, he (Carson) would serve again as 
guide, Fremont reminded him that he should hold him to 
his pledge and would expect to meet him at Bent's Fort 
on his arrival there. 

It was a considerable pecuniary sacrifice for Carson to 
keep his promise, but he never failed to do so, when it 
was not absolutely impossible. Besides, it is fair to pre- 
sume that the old life could never lose its charm for one 
of his disposition, and, contrasted with the hum-drum 
existence of a farmer, he could not have been much 
grieved over the reception of the message. But it must 
be stated that both Owens and Carson sold out at much 
loss, and, putting their affairs in the best shape possible, 
bade families and friends good-bye, mounted their horses 
and set out for Bent's Fort which was safely reached some 
days later. 

There they were warmly welcomed by Fremont, who had 
entered upon his third exploring expedition, the last under 
the authority of the United States government, though 
two others were afterwards undertaken on his own respon- 
sibility. As was to be supposed, Fremont taking lessons 
from his previous experiences, was much better equipped 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 175 

for his third than for either of the other preceding expe- 
ditions. He had about fifty men, among them in addi- 
tion to Carson and Owens, being Maxwell, the famous 
mountaineer. Walker who was a member of Captain 
Bonneville's expedition to the Columbia, besides other 
hunters and scouts less known but not less skilful and 
daring than they. 

We have already given tolerably full accounts of the 
two exploring expeditions of Fremont, and it is not our 
purpose to narrate the particulars of the one which fol- 
lowed. There is a sameness in many of the occurrences 
but the third time the Pathfinder penetrated into the 
recesses of the far west, he became involved in a series 
of experiences totally different from the preceding and 
deeply interesting of themselves. 

Several months were spent on what may be called the 
Great Divide — that is the region where the waters flow 
east or west to either ocean, and in the autumn of the 
year they encamped on the southwestern shore of the 
Great Salt Lake. 

Before them stretched a vast arid plain to which the 
trappers referred with a shudder of terror. They had 
heard of it many a time and the common legend was 
that no man white or Indian who had ever attempted to 
cross it, succeeded. These stories, however, added to the 
eagerness of Captain Fremont to explore its secrets, and, 
when he proposed it to his men, they expressed as strong 



176 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

a desire as he to do so. They felt a mutual trust and 
confidence impossible under other circumstances. 

Some seventy miles away, a mountain peak held out 
the promise of wood and water. Four men under the 
guidance of an Indian, were sent forward to explore the 
place, and, in the event of finding water, they were 
instructed to apprise the watchful commander by means 
of the smoke from a camp fire. 

When the second day closed without sight of the 
signal, Fremont became so uneasy that he moved for- 
ward with the rest of the party and travelled all night. 
At daylight, one of the smaller party approached them. 
He said that running water and grass existed at the 
mountains, but their Indian guide was wholly ignorant of 
the country. This was good news and the next day the 
party reached the stream. 

Shortly after, the expedition was divided into two par- 
ties, Walker (of whom mention has been made), taking 
charge of the larger while Fremont led the smaller. It 
was the purpose of Walker to pass around to the foot of 
the Sierra Nevada, by a route with which he was fami- 
liar, while Fremont with Carson and less than a dozen 
men, among whom were several Delaware Indians, headed 
straight across the desert. 

While advancing over this arid tract, they detected a 
volume of smoke rising from a ravine. Cautiously 
approaching, they discovered an Indian warrior perfectly 
nude, standing by a fire and watching an earthen pot in 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 1 77 

which something was simmering. He was greatly fright- 
ened and offered them his food. They smiled, treated 
him kindly and gave him several trifling presents which 
he received with childish delight. 

One of the singular incidents of the journey took 
place while the exploring party were making their way 
along the foot of the Sierras. Passing around a point on 
tlie lake shore, they unexpectedly met a dozen Indian 
warriors. They were walking directly behind each other 
in what is known as Indian file, their heads bent forwar:! 
and their eyes fixed on the ground. The whites turned 
aside to allow them to pass and naturally walched iliem 
with much interest. The Indians neither halted, deviated 
from the path, spoke nor looked up, but walked straight 
forward with their silent, measured tread until they disap- 
peared. The explorers did not interfere with them or 
speak to them. Thus the representatives of the differ- 
ent races encountered. 

The division under charge of Walker joined Fremont 
at the appointed rendezvous, but winter was upon tliem, 
the mountains v/ere sure to be choked with snow and no 
one was familiar with the route. As a matter of pru- 
dence, therefore. Walker was directed to continue south- 
ward with the principal party, while Fremont and a few 
picked men, pushed on directly through the Sierras to 
Sutter's Fort, with a view of obtaining the necessary 
animals and supplies. 

The smaller division was advancing as best it could, 
12 



178 LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

when a number of plainly marked trails were observed 
showing they were in the vicinity of some of the most 
notorious horse thieves in the world. They were daring 
and skilful, went long distances, plundered ranches and 
hastened to the mountains with their booty. The exas- 
perated Californians often organized and went in pursuit, 
but it was rare they overtook the dusky thieves, and 
when they succeeded in doing so, were invariably 
defeated. 

This sort of people were undesirable neighbors, and 
Fremont sent forward two Delawares and two moun- 
taineers to make an investigation. They had not gone 
far, when the company following them, found the signs 
so threatening that they were alarmed for the scouts. A 
short distance further they came upon such an excellent 
camping site that they decided to halt for the night 



CHAPTER XXVn. 

Alarming Sounds — Danger of the Scouts — Fremont Goes to Theit 
Rescue — Arrival at Sutter's Fort — Ordered out of California by 
the Mexican Governor — Fremont's Refusal — Withdrawal to Sac- 
ramento River — Arrival of Despatches from Washington — War 
with Mexico — Meeting with Lieutenant Gillespie — Night Attack 
by Klamath Indians. 

While preparing to go into camp, the explorers were 
mystified by hearing a number of peculiar sounds like the 
barking of dogs. Attentive listening, however, satisfied 
them that it came from an Indian village close by, whose 
women and children were calling out and lamenting. 
This constituted positive proof that the friends in advance 
were in trouble with the red men and there was not a 
minute to lose in going to their rescue. 

A half mile further, the explorers galloped over a slight 
ridge, when they suddenly came in sight of several hun> 
dred Indians, who were making their way up two sides 
of a knoll, on the crest of which the four scouts had 
entrenched themselves among the rocks and trees and 
were coolly awaiting the attack of their enemies. 

The little party had run so suddenly into danger that 
they were compelled to make a flying leap from their 
horses, in order to secure a suitable shelter. The assail- 
ants had almost captured the abandoned horses, when 

179 



l8o LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

relief came. The two Delawares made a dash to recover 
their animals, their companions shooting the foremost of 
the thieves. The property was saved and then all fell 
back to their own camp. 

As the aboriginal horse thieves were so numerous, Fre- 
mont kept up an unremitting watch all through the night. 
Singular noises were continually heard and there could 
be no doubt that the women and children were retreating 
further into the mountains. 

One of the Delawares on guard was sure he saw mi 
Indian leap over a log, and firing quickly, brought him 
to the ground; but it proved to be a prowling wolf. 
None of their enemies appeared, and wlien morning came, 
Fremont withdrew from his perilous position, 

Sutter's Fort at last was safely reached, and the other 
party having become lost, Carson was sent to find them. 
He succeeded with little difficulty and the companies 
reunited. 

Their course was now directed toward Monterey on the 
sea coast, where they were confident of securing all they 
needed, but before reaching the place, a messenger arrived 
from General Castro, the Mexican commander of the ter- 
ritory, ordering the Americans to leave at once or they 
would be driven out. 

Fremont immediately intrenched himself and waited 
for the Mexicans to carry out their threat. He waited 
three days, and then, as no attempt was made, withdrew 
to the Sacramento, which stream was followed to Law- 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. l8l 

son's Trading Post, where the commander hoped to pur- 
chase the outfit for the journey homeward. 

Moving northward toward the Columbia, they encoun* 
tered an enormous force of marauding Indians with whom 
a fierce battle was fought. The savages were defeated 
and lost a large number of warriors. 

While encamped near Tlamath Lake, two horsemen 
galloped up with despatches, to Fremont, from Washing- 
ton, forwarded by Lieutenant Gillespie, of the United 
States Marines. This officer was making his way through 
the Indian country with six men as an escort, when his 
animals began to succumb. Fearing h^ would not be 
able to intercept the Captam, the Lieutenant selected two 
of his best men and sent them ahead with the despatches. 
He begged Fremont to forward him assistance, as he 
doubted his ability to reach him without such help. 

But the most startling news brought to camp was that 
war had been declared between the United States and 
Mexico. When Fremont had read his despatches from 
his Government, he appreciated the imminent danger in 
which the Lieutenant was placed, and, without any tarry- 
ing, perfected measures for his rescue. 

He immediately selected ten of his men, Carson, as a 
matter of course being among them, and pushed on with 
all haste, leaving directions for the rest to follow as rap- 
idly as they could. 

Fremont and his little company had journeyed some- 
thing over fifty miles when they met the officer and his 



1 82 UFE OF KIT CARSON. 

companions. The meeting was of the happiest nature, 
for the Lieutenant, in fact, was in greater danger than he 
suspected, the Indians around him being among the most 
treacherous of their race. 

Those who have been placed in a situation resembling 
in a slight degree that of Fremont, can appreciate the 
interest with which he perused the letters and papers 
from his distant home. After the parties had gone into 
camp, the Captain sat up till after midnight reading by 
the light of the camp fire. Tired out at last, he stretched 
out with his blanket about him and sank soon into 
heavy slumber. 

The night was cold, and Carson and Owens, with their 
saddle blankets wrapped around them, lay down close to 
the fire. All at once Carson heard a peculiar noise, as 
though some one had struck a quick blow with an axe. 
Wondering what it could mean, he called to one of the 
mountaineers. 

" What's the matter over there ? " 

There was no answer, for the head of the poor fellow 
had been cleft by an axe in the hands of one of the 
Klamath Indians who had crept into camp. A Delaware 
had already been killed by the treacherous redskins, 
that night being the second among all those spent in the 
west, when the explorers had no sentinel on duty. 

Carson and Owens called out '^Indians!"' and spring- 
ing to their feet, hurried away from the fire whose strong 
light was sure to tempt the aim of their enemies. 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, I83 

One of the other Delawares who leaped to his feet 
sna iied up the nearest rifle which unfortunately was not 
his '.vii, and was unloaded. Unaware of the fact, he 
trie to fire it over again and again, without suspecting 
the luse, while a Klamath launched arrow after arrow 
inti iis body. The first penetrated his left breast and 
wa ital ; but he bravely kept his feet trying to dis- 
ch. J the useless gun, until four other missiles were also 
bui 1 within a few inches of the first. 

1 \. Carson had been quick to detect the danger of the 
bra c Delaware, and, in the hope of saving his life, he 
brought his unerring rifle to his shoulder. Just as his 
finger pressed the trigger, he recollected that that, too, 
was unloaded. 

By one of those singular fatalities which sometimes 
occur, Carson had broken the tube the night before, and 
left the *\eapon unloaded. Without trifling with it, he 
threw it down, drew his single barrelled pistol and ran 
toward the Klamath, who was cooly launching his 
arrows into the breast of the poor Delaware. 

The Indian leaped from side to side, so as to distract 
the aim of his enemies, and, instead of hitting him, Car- 
son only cut the string which held a tomahawk to the 
warrior's arm. The mountaineer had no other shot at 
command, and Maxwell tried his hand, but in the uncer- 
tain light, inflicted only a slight wound. The Indian at 
that moment wheeled to run, when one of the whites 



1 84 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

shot him dead. By this time the alarm v/as general and 
the assailants fled. 

There was good reason to believe that the Klamath 
Indians had set the snare for Lieutenant Gillespie and his 
escort. As it was, the wonder was that Fremont's com- 
mand did not suffer to a greater extent ; for having no 
sentinels on duty, the warriors might have perfected their 
schemes in security and killed a large number. 

The Indian who drove five arrows into the left breast 
of the Delaware, three of which pierced his heart, was 
the leader of the attacking party. He had an English 
half-axe slung to his wrist by a cord, and forty arrows 
were left in his quiver. Carson pronounced them the 
most beautiful and warlike missiles he had ever seen. 

As may be supposed the explorers '' slept on their 
arms " for the rest of the night, but the assailants had 
fled. 

They had killed three of the explorers, besides wound- 
ing another of the Delawares, who took characteristic 
revenge by scalping the leader that had been left where 
he fell. The dead were given the best burial possible. 
As illustrating the ingratitude and perfidy of these red 
men, it may be stated that it was only a few days before 
that they had visited Fremont's camp, and, though pro- 
visions were very scarce, they had been given consider 
able food, besides tobacco and a number of presents. 



CHAPTER XXVIII. 

Retaliatory Measures — Fremont's Return to California — Capture 
of Sonoma — Sutter's Fort Placed Under Military Rule — Monte- 
rey Taken by Commodore Sloat — Capture of Los Angeles by 
Fremont and Commdore Stockton — Carson Sent East as a Bearer 
of Despatches — The Meeting with Apaches — General Kearney 
— Bravery of the California Mexicans. 

The indignation over the action of the Indians was so 
great that retaliatory measures were determined upon. 
Fremont moved around Lake Tlamath until nearly oppo- 
site where his command had been attacked. The follow- 
ing morning, Carson and ten men were sent forward to 
search for the Indian village that was believed to be 
somewhere in the neighborhood. If the discovery could 
be made without detection on the part of the Indians, 
Carson was instructed to signal to Fremont who would 
hasten forward with reinforcements. 

The mountaineer had not gone far, when he struck a 
broad, clear trail, which speedily carried him in sight of a 
village of some fifty lodges. As it was evident that the 
Indians had detected their danger, Carson and his com- 
panions made an impetuous attack before which the red 
men fled in wildest panic. A number were shot, when, 
finding pursuit useless, Carson returned to the village 
where all the lodges were destroyed. 

185 



l86 LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

Because of the war with Mexico, Fremont decided to 
return to California. On his way thither, the Tlamath 
Indians continually dogged them and a number of coU 
lisions followed, though none was oi particular moment. 
After suffering many hardships, Lawson's rort was 
reached and several days were spent in hunting, while 
Fremont awaited instructions as to the course he was to 
take in the war then going on between the United States 
and Mexico. 

As the days went by without bringing him any des- 
patches, he wearied of inactivity and decided to assume 
the aggressive. Accordingly he sent a force to a Mexi- 
can military post known as Sonoma, which with little 
trouble was taken. 

Fremont sent out a couple of messengers to inform the 
American settlers of what had taken place, but the mes- 
sengers fell into the hands of General Castro who put 
both to death. 

General Castro sent one of his captains, with quite a 
force to destroy the Americans, but the officer changed 
his mind when he found himself in the neighborhood of 
the detested invaders. Fremont pursued him for nearly 
a week, and captured much of his stock and property, 
but the Mexican was so skilful in retreating that he could 
not be brought to bay and Fremont returned to Sonoma. 

The little force under Fremont now became the rallying 
point for the American settlers, and before long the Cap- 
tain had several hundred under his command. Leaving 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. \Zy 

a garrison at Sonoma, he marched to Sutter's Fort, whicH^ 
was placed under military rule, and then made his way 
toward Monterey with the purpose of capturing that 
town. On his arrival, however, he found the place had 
already been taken by Commodore Sloat and the Ameri- 
can squadron. The Commodore leaving shortly after^^ 
Commodore Stockton succeeded him. 

While at Sonoma, Fremont and his comrades had 
declared the independence of California and adopted the 
Bear Flag, which was proffered to Commodore Sloat and 
the Star Syangled Banner hoisted over the camp. 

As the Mexican General, Castro, was known to be at 
Los Angeles, Fremont asked for and obtained a ship on 
which his force was taken to San Diego. Then with a 
much inferior force, he set out to give battle to the Mexi- 
can leader ; but the latter no sooner learned of his comings 
than he fled with all his men. Finding it impossible ta 
force him to give battle, Fremont encamped near the 
town, where he waited until joined by Commodore Stock- 
ton and a company of marines. 

The junction effected, they marched upon Los Angeles^ 
w^hich immediately fell into their hands. Long before 
this, Fremont had become impressed with the necessity^ 
of having some communication with Washington. In 
one sense it may be said he was all at sea, for he was 
without positive instructions, at a critical period, when it 
was most important that bis line of policy should be 
clearly defined by his government. 



1 88 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

But the matter of communicating with headquarters, 
thousands of miles away was infinitely more difficult and 
serious than it is to-day. A vast, wild, perilous and 
almost unknown tract stretched between the Pacific and 
Atlantic, across which it required weeks and sometimes 
;months for an express rider to make his way. To send 
despatches around Cape Horn took a much longer time ; 
but the necessity was so urgent that Fremont sent Carson 
with fifteen picked men across the plains, instructing him 
to complete the journey if possible in sixty days. 

Carson started in the middle of September, 1846, and 
by the exercise of his consummate skill he passed rapidly 
through a most dangerous section without running into 
any special danger until the third day. Then, when in 
the neighborhood of the copper mines of New Mexico, 
he suddenly came upon an encampment of Apaches, one 
of the most hostile tribes and the most daring of fighters 
In the whole southwest. 

Ihis was another of those critical occasions where 
Carson's wonderful quickness ot mind enabled him to 
make the right decision without a second's delay. He 
understood the language, customs and peculiarities of the 
people, and he knew them to be splendid riders and 
tiger-Hke warriors. The least evidence of timidity would 
invite an overwhelming attack: a bold front and what 
may be called indomitable " cheek " were all that was 
likely to take them through. 

Telling his men to halt, Carson galloped forward until 



LIFE OF KIT CARSO:< 1 89 

within a few rods of the warriors, Vheri md 

called out that he wished to hold a {lai! m^ 

Therupon, a number advanced to hear \\\u\. to 

say. The mountaineer stated that he ii ids 

were simply travellers through the Apach ,y; 

while they were prepared for war, they desireu p cind 

as their animals were tired out they wished to ex-, ange 
them for fresh ones. The Apaches expressed theinselves 
satisfied with the proposal, and Carson carefully chose a 
camping site, where they could best protect themselves 
against treachery. Then the exchange was made, both 
parties being so well satisfied that they parted with many- 
expressions of good will. 

It was impossible to carry any extended stock of pro- 
visions, the party depending upon their rifles to supply 
their needs in that direction ; but game proved to be 
very scarce and they suffered much until they reached 
the first Mexican settlement. Although those people 
were at war with the United States, their friendship for 
Carson led them to supply abundantly all the wants of 
himself and friends. 

With unremitting diligence and skill, the party pushed 
on day after day until the sixth of October, when, as 
they were riding across a treeless prairie, several moving^ 
specks were observed in the far horizon. As they came 
closer, they resolved themselves into horsemen, and, with 
St delight which may be imagined, Carson speedily 
i>bserved that they were a detachment of United States 



190 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

troops under the command of General S. W. Kearney, 
who was highly pleased to meet Carson. 

The detachment was a strong one and was on its way 
to operate in California. After that officer had obtained 
all the important news Carson had to give, he decided to 
send the despatches to Washington by another, while he 
•employed the mountaineer to guide him back. 

This delicate duty was executed with such admirable 
•skill that General Kearney commended Carson in the 
highest terms. So rapidly did they move that California 
was entered early in December, and they were approach- 
ing San Diego, when the scouts brought news that a 
large party of Mexicans were intrenched a short distance 
ahead with the intention of disputing their advance. 
Fifteen men under Carson were sent forward to drive 
in the outposts and capture such loose animals as could 
i>e found. 

A fierce fight followed, the Mexicans showing far more 
daring and skill than was expected. General Kearney 
was compelled to send two companies of dragoons and 
twenty-five California volunteers to charge the enemy. 
Carson was in the front column, and was riding at high 
'Speed, when his horse stumbled, throwing him so violently 
as to shatter the stock of his gun. He lay partly stunned 
but speedily recovering, he caught up the rifle of a dead 
dragoon and rushed into the fight. Though the Mexi- 
cans were finally driven out, they inflicted frightful loss 
on the Americans. Nearly every man who was in the 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 19? 

front column, where Carson was riding when his horse 
threw him, was killed by the deadly bullets of the 
enemy. 

The Mexicans soon rallied and attacked the Americans 
with such fierceness that the advance guard was driven 
back and forced to act on the defensive. No soldiers 
could have fought with greater gallantry than did the 
assailants. Before the two mountain howitzers could be 
unlimbered, almost every man around them was shot 
down. Then the Mexicans charged forward, lassoed the 
horses, captured one of the guns and turned it on the 
Americans. From some cause or other it could not be 
discharged. Finally, the Americans took refuge among 
the rocks, where they were surrounded by three or four 
times their number, seemingly with the choice of two 
courses before them — to surrender or starve to death. 



CHAPTER XXIX. 

Daring Exploit of Kit Carson and Lieutenant Bealc — General 
Kearney Saved, 

The situation o\ General Kearney and his men could 
not have been more desperate. The only subsistence 
they had were their mules, and the water was insutTicient 
to meet their wants. They were completely surrounded 
by the brave California Mexicans. They mi^ht exist for 
a time on the bodies of their animals, but the}' must 
perish without water. 

General Kearney called his friends to^^ether during 
the afternoon to consult as to whether any possible means 
of escape was before them. He could see none. He had 
sent three scouts to Commodore Stockton at San Diego, 
asking for immediate help, but the three were captured 
by the Mexicans on tlieir return. Kearney had succeeded 
in exchanging a Mexican lieutenant, whom he held pris- 
oner, for one of the scouts, but nothing was gained thereby. 
The messenger reported that they had been unable to 
reach San Diego, and Commodore Stockton, therefore, 
was in ignorance of the peril of his countrymen not far 
distant. 

When every one expressed himself as unable to see the 
first ray of hope, Carson in his deliberate, modest way 
192 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 1 93 

said that it was clear only a single possibility remained — 
that was by procuring relief from Commodore Stockton 
at San Diego. Though the other scouts had failed to 
reach him, Carson expressed his belief that he could suc- 
ceed. At any rate, he desired to make the attempt, to 
pass the Mexican lines. 

Lieutenant Beale, since Minister to Austria, and favor- 
ably known throughout the country, immediately sec- 
onded the proposition, volunteering to accompany Carson, 
General Kearney gladly and gratefully accepted the offer^ 
and the arrangements were instantly made. These 
arrangements were of the simplest nature. The be- 
leagured Americans were surrounded by three cordons 
of sentinels, and it was necessary for Carson and Beale to 
make their way past them in order to reach San Diego. 

When night was fully descended, the two left the rocks 
and approaching the first line, sank upon their hands and 
knees, and crawled forward with the silence and stealth 
of Indian scouts. Despite the utmost care, their shoes 
made a slight noise now and then, and to avoid it, they 
took them off and shoved them in their belts. 

The exploit of Lieutenant Beale and Kit Carson was a 
most remarkable one in every respect. Frequently- 
through the gloom, they would catch the faint outlines 
of a sentinel, pacing back and forth. In.stantly the two 
would lie flat on their faces until the man moved away^ 
when the painful progress would be resumed. 

The slightest forgetfulness was certain to prove fatal, 
13 



194 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

for the Mexicans knowing the desperate straits of the 
Americans, must have been expecting some such attempt 
and were therefore more than usually watchful. 

Once a mounted Mexican rode close to the prostrate 
figures, sprang off his horse and lit his cigarette. He 
was so close that the tiny flame showed his nose and feat- 
ures, as it was held in front of his face, while lighting the 
twist of tobacco. During that most trying moment as 
Kit Carson afterwards declared, he distinctly heard the 
beating of Lieutenant Beale's heart. 

There seemed no escape but finally the horseman drove 
away and the painful progress was continued for fully two 
miles, during which both men were constantly peering 
through the darkness for signs of danger. Again and 
again they were compelled to halt, and lying flat on their 
faces, wait till their fate was determined. 

'* We are through,'' whispered Carson at last, when 
considerable distance beyond the last row of sentinels. 

*' Thank heaven ! " exclaimed Lieutenant Beale in the 
same guarded voice. 

" Now we'll put on our shoes and travel as fast as we 
know how to San Diego — " 

The mountaineer paused in dismay, for, while creeping 
over the plain, he had lost both his shoes that were thrust 
in his belt. The Lieutenant had been equally unfortu- 
nate, and, as it was utterly out of their power to recover 
them, they could only push on barefooted, over a soil that 
abounded with thorns and prickly pears. As these could 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, igS 

not be seen in the darkness, their feet were soon wounded 
to a distressing degree. It was necessary to avoid the 
well beaten trails, so that the route was not only made 
longer, but much more difficult on account of the 
obstacles named. 

Yet they were working for a great stake. The lives of 
General Kearney and his brave men were in the balance. 
If Carson and Beale failed to bring help right speedly, 
they were doomed. 

All night long, through the succeeding day and far 
into the following night, the couple, worn, wearied and 
with bleeding feet, pushed ahead. When exhausted, 
they would halt for a brief while, but the thought of their 
imperilled comrades, and the fear that some of the Mexi- 
cans were pursuing them, speedily started them off again 
and they kept to their work with a grim resolution which 
heeded not fatigue, suffering and wounds. 

The only compass Carson had was his eye, but he was 
so familiar with the country that he never lost himself. 
The weary men were still trudging forward, when through 
the darkness ahead suddenly flashed out a star-like point 
of light. Several others appeared and a minute after 
they dotted the background of gloom like a constella- 
tion. 

"That's San Diego ! " exclaimed Carson, who could not 
be mistaken. The couple could scarcely restrain their 
joy. New life and activity thrilled their bodies, and they 



rg6 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

hurried on with the same elastic eagerness they felt at 
the beginning. 

In a short while they were challenged by sentinels, 
and making known their mission, were taken before 
Commodore Stockton. That officer, with his usual 
promptness, sent a force of nearly two hundred men to 
the relief of General Kearney. They took with them a 
piece of ordnance which for want of horses the men 
themselves were forced to draw. 

They advanced by forced marches to the endangered 
Americans, scarcely pausing night or day, until in sight of 
the Mexicans, who considering discretion the better part 
of valor, withdrew without exchanging a shot with the 
naval brigade. 

As may be supposed, the feet of Carson and Beale 
were in a frightful condition, when they reached San 
Diego. The mountaineer, on that account, did not 
return with the reinforcements, but he described the 
course and location so minutely that no difficulty was 
experienced by the relieving force. 

Lieutenant Beale was a man of sturdy frame, accus- 
tomed to roughing it on the frontier, but the sufferings 
he underwent on that eventful night were such that he 
felt the effects for years afterward. 



CHAPTER XXX. 

Capture of Los Angeles — Court Martial of Fremont — Carson Ap- 
pointed a Bearer of Dispatches to Washington — His Journey 
to St. Louis — Visits Washington — Appointed Lieutenant by 
President Polk — Ordered Back Across the Continent — His Jour- 
ney — Assigned to Duty at Tajon Pass — Again Ordered to Wash- 
ington — His Appointment not Confirmed by the United States 
Senate — Visit to Washington — Return to New Mexico. 

The chief force of the Mexicans was at Los Angeles 
over a hundred miles to the north of San Diego. They 
numbered six or seven hundred and were strongly 
intrenched. General Kearney and Commodore Stockton, 
joined their commands and marched to attack them. 
Arriving in front of the town, they scattered the Mexi- 
cans intrenched on the outside, and then marched into 
the place. But the enemy had fled and gone northward 
to meet Fremont who was on his way from Monterey 
with four hundred men to attack Los Angeles. 

The Mexicans had not long to search when they found 
Fremont, but, instead of giving him battle, their com- 
mander surrendered, possibly preferring to give him the 
honor, instead of selecting the other commanders. Fre- 
mont continued his march to Los Angeles, where they 
went into winter quarters, and Carson, who had been 

197 



198 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

devoting his valuable services to General Kearney, now 
rejoined his old friend, Fremont. 

It may be stated in this place that the jealousy between 
Commodore Stockton and General Kearney assumed such 
a shape at that time that Fremont was compelled to 
acknowledge either one or the other as his superior 
officer. He selected Commodore Stockton as the one to 
whom he owed superior allegiance. The result of the 
petty quarrel was the trial of Fremont by court martial, 
the particulars of which are too well known to require 
further reference at our hands. 

In the following March, Kit Carson was selected to 
carry despatches to Washington. Lieutenant Beale, who 
was still suffering from the exposure and hardships he 
had undergone, accompanied him, together with a guard 
of a dozen veteran mountaineers. Lieutenant Beale was 
so weak that Carson for many days was obliged to lift 
him on and off his horse ; but the clear air, the healthful 
exercise and the cheery companionship of the hardy 
scout were the best tonics in the world, and probably did 
the invalid more good than any other treatment that 
could have been devised. 

Carson took an extremely southern route, and his 
superior skill and knowledge of the country and its 
inhabitants enabled him to avoid all danger until he 
reached a tributary of the lower Colorado. While in 
camp at midnight, they were assailed with a shower of 
arrows from a party of Indians ; but, as Carson expected 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 199 

the attack, he had made such hreparations that not one 
of his men were injured. 

Without any other incident worth the mention, Carson 
and his escort reached St, Louis. There the renowned 
mountaineer became the hero of the hour. He was 
taken at once to the home of Hon. Thomas H. Benton, 
the distinguished statesman and the father-in-law of 
Colonel Fremont, who introduced him to the leading 
citizens. 

The first person to greet Carson when he stepped from 
the cars in Washington was Mrs. Fremont, who recognized 
him from the description given by her husband in his 
letters. She compelled him to accompany her to the 
house of her father, where he remained an honored guest 
during his stay in Washington, which was for a consider- 
able time. 

Among the compliments paid Carson while in the cap- 
ital was that of his appointment by President Polk, as 
lieutenant in the rifle corps of the United States army, 
and he was ordered to return across the continent with 
despatches. At Fort Leavenworth, Carson was furnished 
with an escort of fifty men who were volunteers in the 
war against Mexico. 

The journey westward was marked by no stirring inci- 
dent until he reached the eastern declivity of the Rocky 
Mountains, where a company of United States Volunteers 
were overtaken. They had in charge an enormous train 
of wagojis on the way to New Mexico. On the morning 



200 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

after the encampment of Carson near them, the Indians 
made an attack upon the volunteers, capturing all their 
cattle and more than twenty horses. The mountaineer 
and his men dashed to the rescue, recaptured all the cattle, 
but were unable to retake the horses. 

Shortly after, Carson and his company reached Santa 
F^. There he parted from the volunteers and hired six- 
teen others with which he continued the journey, thereby 
obeying the instructions received at Fort Leavenworth. 

Pursuing the even tenor of his way, he arrived at a 
tributary of the Virgin River, when he abruptly came 
upon an encampment of several hundred Comanches, 
who, as Carson happened to know, had massacred a num- 
ber of settlers only a short time before. Understanding 
as thoroughly as he did the treacherous nature of these 
people, he made a bold front, and, when they attempted 
to visit his camp, peremptorily ordered them to keep 
away. 

He added that he knew all about them, and the first 
one who moved closer would be shot. Furthermore, if 
they did not depart, within a specified time, he notified 
them that they would be fired upon. These were such 
audacious words that the Comanches doubted their sin- 
cerity. To test it, some of them overstayed their time. 
Not wishing to break his pledge, Carson ordered his men 
to fire. One of the warriors fell, while several others 
who were badly wounded, came to the conclusion that 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 20I 

when the great mountaineer made a statament there was 
likely to be considerable truth in it. 

Food soon became so scarce that mule meat formed 
the only diet until they reached Los Angeles. Carson 
pushed on to Monterey where he delivered the 
despatches to the proper officer, and then returning to Los 
Angeles he was assigned to duty in Captain Smith's 
Company of United States dragoons. He was given 
command of twenty-five dragoons and directed to pro- 
ceed to Tajon Pass, through which marauding Indians 
were accustomed to pass when returning from their raids 
in California. It was an important point, and the winter 
of 1847-48 was spent in the performance of the duties 
thus placed upon him. In the spring, he was once more 
ordered to carry despatches to Washington, an escort 
being furnished him as in the previous instance. 

In crossing Grand River, one of the rafts became 
unmanageable, upset, losing considerable valuable pro- 
perty and endangering the lives of a number of the com- 
pany. A large force of Utah and Apache Indians were 
encountered, but Carson managed them with the same 
skill he had shown them so many times before. 

On arriving at Taos, he spent several days with 
his family and friends, after which he proceeded to Santa 
Fe. There he learned that the United States Senate had 
refused to confirm his nomination as lieutenant in the 
army. Many of his friends were so angered over this 
slight that they urged him to refuse to carry the despatches 



202 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

further; but his reply, as given by Dr. Peters, is so 
admirable that we quote it : 

" I was entrusted with these despatches, having been 
chosen in California, from whence I come, as the most 
competent person to take them through safely. I would 
try to fulfill this duty even if I knew it would cost me 
my life. It matters not to me, while I am performing 
this service for my country, whether I hold the rank of 
lieutenant in the United States Army or am known 
merely as an experienced mountaineer. I have gained 
some little honor and credit for the manner in which I 
have always conducted myself when detailed on any 
special and important business, and I would on no 
account now wish to forfeit the good opinion formed of 
me by a majority of my countrymen because the United 
States Senate did not deem it proper to confer on me an 
appointment which I never solicited, and one which, had 
it been confirmed, I would have resigned at the termina- 
tion of the war." 

Having determined to perform his duty, he made care- 
ful inquiries as to the state of feeling among the Indians 
through whose country the trail led. The reports were 
of the most alarming character : the Comanches were on 
the war path with a vengeance. They were swarming all 
along the old Santa Fe Trail, on the watch for parties 
whom they could overwhelm and destroy. 

Such being the case, Carson resorted to the bold arti- 
fice of making a trail of his own. He reduced his escort 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 203 

to ten experienced mountaineers and then struck out 
upon his new route. He rode northward from Taos 
until within a region rarely visited by hostiles, when he 
changed his course by the compass several times. By 
this means, he reached Fort Kearney on the Platte and 
finally arrived at Fort Leavenworth. Not only had he 
avoided all trouble with Indians, but by following the 
new route, had found abundance of game so that the 
entire trip was but little more than a pleasure excursion. 

All danger was over at Fort Leavenworth, where he 
parted from his escort and went alone to Washington, 
Previous to this, the war with Mexico had ended, the 
treaty of peace having been signed February 2, 1848, and 
proclaimed on the 4th of July following. 

Carson tarried in Washington only long enough to 
deliver his despatches to the proper authorities, when he 
turned about and made his way to Taos, New Mexico, 
where he joined once more his family and friends. 



CHAPTER XXXI. 

Hostility of the Apaches — Colonel Beale Sends an Expedition 
Against Them — Nothing Accomplished — Colonel Beale Leads 
an Expedition with Carson as Guide — Capture and Release of 
Two Chiefs — March to the Arkansas— Another Failure — Carson 
and Maxwell Build a Ranche — Fremont's Fourth Expedition — 
The Murderous Apaches — A Fruitless Pursuit. 

Kit Carson was one of those whose destiny seems to 
be that of stirring incident and adventure. No man pos- 
sessed such an intimate knowledge of the manners, cus- 
toms and peculiarities of the tribes in the south-west, and 
with his exceptional woodcraft, skill and high courage his 
services were always indispensable. 

While he was at Taos, the Indians around him 
were restless until the whole country was seething 
and on the verge of a general revolt. Colonel Be^lo^.. 
commanding officer of the district, had established his 
headquarters at Taos. The Apaches committed so many 
outrages that he believed the only course open was to 
administer a thorough chastisement ; but it was tenfold 
easier to reach such a conclusion than it was to carry it 
out. A strong force having been despatched to bring 
them to account, pursued them to the mountains from 
which they were compelled to return without accomplish- 
ing anything '^ «U. The subsequent history of these 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 20$ 

Apaches and of General Crook's campaign against them 
are familiar enough to all to justify the declaration that 
they have proven themselves the bravest and most 
formidable tribe that has defied the United States govern- 
ment during the past half century. 

Disappointed that the officer whom he sent failed to do 
anything, Colonel Beale took command himself and 
employed Kit Carson as guide. Instead of stopping in 
the mountains because they were blocked with snow, as 
the former expedition had done, Colonel Beale forced his 
way with great difficulty through them. The search for 
the Indians was long but fruitless. The cunning red skins 
were at home in their fastnesses and not a solitary war- 
rior was bagged. 

As the supply of provisions was running low, Colonel 
Beale was forced to return and retrace his steps. On their 
return, they came upon a village of Apaches into which 
the soldiers charged; but the nimble warriors easily got 
away, with the exception of a couple of chiefs who fell 
into the hands of the Americans. Hoping to rouse the 
chivalry and gratitude of their nature, Colonel Beale 
lectured them kindly and after their promise to behave 
themselves, allowed them to depart. As soon as they 
were beyond rifle shot, they must have grinned with 
exultation, for it was not their nature to repay kindness 
with anything but cruelty. 

As Colonel Beale could not accomplish anything during 
the winter months, he returned to Taos, where he 



206 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

remained until February, when, learning that a large 
force of Indians were congregated on the Arkansas, with 
a number of Mexican captives, he went thither intending 
to retake them by force, if they could not be secured by 
peaceable means. He had two companies of dragoons, 
ana as before, engaged Carson as guide. 

When he reached the Arkansas, he found himself con- 
fronted by two thousand Indians who had gathered to 
meet their agent and probably to consult as to their future 
movements. The agent was present and was a man of 
practical sense and experience. He told Colonel Beale 
that it would never do to demand the prisoners, for the 
Indians were in ugly temper and if aroused, would mas- 
sacre the whole command. Colonel Beale himself was 
resentful, and very much disposed to give the red men 
battle, but he suffered himself to be dissuaded from carry- 
ing out his original purpose. 

When Carson returned once more to Taos, he reflected 
that he was approaching middle hfe, and as he now had 
quite a family, he was anxious to provide something for 
them. Though he had rendered services beyond value 
to ihe United States government, and to different individ- 
uals, he had not received enough compensation to place 
them above want should he become disabled. About this 
time, his old friend. Maxwell, proposed that they should 
build a ranch in a beautiful valley some distance north of 
Taos. The site was a most charming one, though it was 



LIFE OF KIT CARSQN. 207 

SO much exposed to the attack of Indians that until then 
no one had dared to settle there. 

Handsome, roomy and substantial structures were 
erected, and many of the most enjoyable days of their 
lives were spent on this famous ranche. It would be a 
pleasant farewell to leave them there to end their days in 
comfort and peace, but it was to be far otherwise with 
both and especially with Carson. 

In 1848-49, Colonel Fremont made a fourth exploring 
expedition across the continent, he bearing all the 
expense, as he did in the case of his fifth expedition 
made in 1853. The fourth was an appalling failure, 
marked by an extremity of suffering that is incredible. 
The guide employed was wholly ignorant and the com- 
mand became entangled among the snows of the 
mountains, where some of them lived not only on mules 
but on each other. The strongest lay down and died, 
and the horrible features of Fremont's fourth expedition 
were only approached by that of Lieutenant Strain on the 
Isthmus of Darien. When Ihe few ghastly survivors- 
staggered out of the mountains they tottered to Carson's 
ranche, where they received the kindest treatment from 
him who had served Fremont so faithfully on his 
former expeditions. 

Carson had been on his ranche but a short time, when 
news reached him of a most atrocious murder by the 
Apaches. A wealthy merchant was returning in his 
private carriage with his wife and child from the United 



*io'a LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

States to Santa Fe. He was accompanied by a small 
escort and the wagon train carrying his goods. When 
he beheved all danger past, he hurried forward with his 
fem^ly, who were becoming tired of the journey. 

At a point where there was no suspicion of danger, 
the Apaches fired upon the carriage, killing every one 
who cLc:ompanied it, including the merchant himself. 
The wife and child were made prisoners and carried 
away. Shortly after the little one was tomahawked and 
thrown into the river. 

When news of the outrage reached New Mexico, a 
party was hastily organized and started out in the hope 
of saving the woman and punishing the wretches who 
had committed the murders. When Carson learned of 
what was contemplated, he offered his services. They 
were accepted, but much to the surprise of his friends, 
he was given an inferior position. It was characteristic 
of the splendid scout that he did not show by word or 
look that he felt the slightest resentment on account of 
the Slight. * 

With a less skilful leader than himself, Carson galloped 
with the company to the scene of the murder. -The 
sight was frightfully suggestive : pieces of harness, band 
boxes, trunks, strips of blood-stained clothing, and frag- 
ments of the carriage attested the untamable ferocity of 
the Apaches who had swooped down on the doomed 
party like a cyclone. 

From that point the trail was taken and the infuriated 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 209 

mountaineers urged their steeds to the utmost, knowing 
the value of every hour and that in the case of a fight 
with the Indians a surprise is half the battle. 

Day after day the pursuit was maintained until nearly 
two weeks had gone by, before the first glimpse of a 
warrior was obtained. The trail was one of the worst 
imaginable, and, had the pursuers been less skilful, they 
would have been baffled almost from the first. At 
certain points, the Apaches would break up into parties 
of two or three that would take different routes, reuniting 
at some place many miles beyond where water was 
known to be. This was done repeatedly, with a view of 
disconcerting any avengers who might take their trail, 
and it is a tribute to the ability of the mountaineers that 
the cunning artifice failed, so far as they were concerned, 
of its purpose. 

At last the Apaches were descried in the distance. 
Carson was the first to discover them, he being some 
distance in advance. Knowing how necessary it was to 
surprise them he shouted to his companions to charge at 
once. Not doubting he would be followed, he dashed 
ahead with his horse on a dead run, but looking over 
his shoulder when he had gone part way, he saw to his 
consternation he was alone. 

Angered and impatient, he rode back to learn what it 

meant. The chief guide had directed the men to wait as 

there was no doubt the Apache's desired to hold a parley. 

It meant the next moment in the shape of a bullet from 

14 



2T^ LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

the Indians which struck the leader in the breast and 
rendered him senseless. As soon as he recovered, he 
ordered his men to make the attack and leave him to 
himself. 

He was obeyed, but the delay was fatal. On charging 
into the camp they were able to kill only one warrior. 
The body of the woman was found still warm, showing 
that she had been slain only a brief while before. 

All those acquainted with the particulars of this sad 
affair agreed that had the advice of Carson been followed 
the poor lady might have been saved. 



CHAPTER XXXII. 

The Wounded Herder— A Successful Pursuit — An Atrocious Plot-* 
How it was Frustrated — Gratitude of the Gentlemen Whoiu 
Carson was the Means of Saving From Death. 

Carson returned to his ranche where he spent the 
winter. One day in spring a wounded herder managed 
to reach the place with the news that he and his com- 
panion, stationed a few miles away^ had been attacked by 
Apacnes, who wounded both, and ran off all the horses 
and mules. 

A squad of ten dragoons and a sergeant were on 
guard near Carson's ranche. They and three settlers, 
including Carson, started at once in pursuit. It was so 
iate in the day that when they came to the place where 
the outrage had been committed, it was dark and they 
went into camp ; but they were astir at the earliest dawn, 
and soon striking the trail of the thieves, put their ani- 
mals to a keen gallop. Some twenty miles further, the 
Apaches were described a long distance away. As it 
was upon the open prairie the contest at once resolved 
itself into an open chase. 

It was no time to spare the animals, whose rapid gait 
was increased until it became a killing pace. The pur- 
suers were steadily gaining, when four of their horses 
succumbed and their riders, much to their chagrin, were 
211 



212 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

shut out from the impending fray. The others had no 
time to stop : they could simply shout good-bye to them 
and spur their steeds to greater exertions. Fortunately 
the pursuers were better mounted than the fugitives who 
numbered a full score. With a bravery characteristic of 
their tribe, they clung to their stolen property preferring 
to be overtaken and forced into a fight rather than 
abandon it. 

As soon as the parties were within rifle range, the 
battle began and became of the most exciting char- 
acter. The Apaches were splendid horsemen and dis- 
played great skill. They threw themselves on the far 
side of their steeds, firing from under the neck, and keep- 
ing their bodies so well concealed that it was a difficult 
task to bring them down. 

But the white men were accustomed to that sort of 
work, and the Apaches learned a lesson they never for- 
got. Five of their best warriors were killed, several 
badly wounded and nearly all the animals recaptured. 
Kit Carson directed every movement of his men and to 
that fact their great success was due. 

The mountaineer was favored with prosperous times on 
his ranche. He and a companion drove fifty head of 
mules and horses to Fort Laramie, where they were dis- 
posed of at a liberal profit. The round journey of a 
thousand miles, was attended with much danger, but it 
was accomplished without mishap. 

He reached home just in time to learn that the 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 213 

Apaches had visited the little settlement and run off all 
the animals. But as enough soldiers were within call, a 
pursuit was soon organized and very nearly all the stock 
was recovered. 

Some months later an officer of the United States 
Army in Taos, learned of a most atrocious plot that was 
on foot. Two wealthy gentlemen, travelling leisurely 
through that section of the country had engaged an 
American named Fox to hire enough men to escort them 
across the plains. This Fox was one of the most con- 
scienceless wretches and desperadoes that ever lived. He 
formed a scheme to murder the two gentlemen at a cer- 
tain point on the plains and to divide their money among 
him and his companions. Those whom he secured were 
taken into his confidence and agreed to the crime before- 
hand. 

Among those to whom he applied, was a miscreant 
in Taos, who, for some reason, refused to go with 
him. However, he kept the secret until sure the entire 
party were so far out on the plains that nothing could 
prevent the perpetration of the crime. He then told it 
to several associates one of whom made it known to the 
officer of whom we have spoken. 

This gentleman was horrified, and uncertain what could 
be done, if indeed he could do anything, hastened to Kit 
Carson, to whom he made known the story. The moun- 
taineer listened eagerly, and, as soon as he grasped the 
whole plot, declared there was reason to believe it was 



214 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

not too late to frustrate it. With that wonderful intuition 
which was such a marked characteristic of his nature, he 
fixed upon the very place where it had been decided the 
crime was to be committed. Knowing the entire route, 
it was easy to determine the spot most likely to be 
selected, which was more than two hundred miles distant. 
Instead, therefore, of following the trail, he struck directly 
across the open prairie by the most direct course to his 
destination. 

Ten finely mounted dragoons accompanied, all ready 
for any deed of daring. The route led through a country 
where the Indians were very hostile, but they were 
avoided with little difficulty. The second night out, they 
came upon the encampment of a detachment of United 
States troops, whose captain volunteered to take twenty 
of his soldiers and help bring the desperadoes to justice. 

The expedition was a complete success. They over- 
took the party at the very spot fixed upon, and Fox was 
arrested before he suspected the business of the strangers 
in camp. When the overthrow of the wretches was com- 
plete, the gentlemen were told the story. They were 
speechless for a moment and could not believe it ; but 
the proof was complete, and they turned pale at the 
thought of the fate they had escaped. 

Their gratitude was unbounded. Taking the hand of 
Carson they begged him to name some reward he would 
accept, but the mountaineer shook his head. 

"I am more than repaid in being able to help frustrate 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 21 5 

such a crime as was contemplated ; I cannot think of 
accepting anything of the kind you name." 

The gentlemen, however, could not forget that under 
heaven, they owed their lives to Kit Carson. The follow- 
ing spring a couple of splendid revolvers arrived at the 
mountaineer's ranche addressed to him. Beautifully 
engraved on them were a few sentences expressive of the 
feelings of the donors and the special occasion which 
called forth the gift. 

it is easy to understand how much more acceptable 
such an acknowledgement was to Kit Carson than any 
sum of money could have been. 

Fox was lodged in jail, but though there was no doubt 
of his guilt in the minds of every one, yet tne meditated 
crime was so aifhcult to establish that ultimately lie was 
set free. 



CHAPTER XXXIII. 

Carson Visits St. Louis oii Business- Encounter with Cheyennes 
on his Return — His Sagacity Does not Fail Him -C,ai son's 
Last Beaver Expedition — His Cal.foniia Speculation, 

Maxwell, the mountaineer and intimate Inend of Car- 
son was quite wealthy and was of great assistance in 
several schemes which they undertook in partnership. 
One of their enterprises, was that of sending a train of 
wagons belonging to the two to the States. Carson took 
charge, and, jogging along at a comfortable rate, they 
reached in due time the Missouri, where he went by steam- 
boat to St. Louis. There he purchased a large amount 
of merchandise which was taken up stream on the boat, 
transferred to his wagon trail and the faces of all were 
then turned toward New Mexico. 

Everything went well until they approached the ford- 
ing of the Arkansas, when they came upon a large village 
of Cheyenne Indians. Unfortunately some days before, 
a company of recruits had shown such cruelty toward 
several warriors belonging to that tribe, that they were 
roused to the highest point of fury, and were only 
waiting an opportunity to visit punishment on the first 
whites that came in their way. 

Carson knew nothing of the occurrence nor did he 
know of the bitter hostility of the Cheyennes, but when 
2f6 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 217 

they went into council, and he overheard some expres- 
sions, he saw that something was wrong. He warned his 
men to be ready for instant attack never permitting the 
Indians to catch them off their guard for a single 
moment. 

The warriors fell behind, but after awhile, a number 
rode up on horseback. They were in their war paint and 
there could be no doubt of their hostility. Carson spoke 
in a conciliating manner and invited them into his camp 
to have a smoke and talk. The invitation was accepted. 
The hypocritical ceremony continued some time, when 
the warriors began talking among themselves. 

They spoke in Sioux at first, their purpose being to 
lay the impending massacre against those people, but in 
their excitement, they dropped back to their own tongue 
and the whole appalling truth became speedily known to 
Carson and through him to his companions. 

He sat on the ground with the furious warriors, and 
heard them agree that at the moment the leader (as they 
recognized Carson to be), laid down his arms to take the 
pipe in his mouth, they would leap upon and kill him. 
They would then massacre all the rest. Inasmuch as 
they were powerful enough to carry out this diabolical 
plan, it will be admitted that Carson's nerves were pretty 
thoroughly tested, when the pipe passing from one to tke 
other was within a few minutes of reaching him. 

Most of the men with the mountaineer were Mexicans, 
very deficient in courage and in a hand-to-hand encoun- 



Sl8 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

ter, the Cheyennes could overcome the party in the space 
of a few minutes. 

It was in such crises as these that the remarkable fer- 
tiUty of resources possessed by Kit Carson displayed 
themselves. He seemed to perceive by intuition the 
wisest course to adopt and that perception came to him 
the instant the demand for it appeared. 

Rising to his feet and grasping his weapons, he strode 
to the middle of the group and astounded them by begin- 
ning his address in their native tongue. He reminded 
them that that was proof he comprehended every '^~ord 
uttered by them. He spoke as if grieved by their 
course, for he insisted he had never wronged any one of 
their tribe, but on the contrary had been their friend. 
He then commanded them to leave the camp without 
delay or they would be riddled with bullets. 

Carson's blue eyes flashed and his face was like a thun- 
der cloud. It was the Cheyennes who were surprised 
and they could but obey orders, though from their man- 
ner, it was clear the trouble was not yet ended. They 
withdrew and went into council, while Carson and his 
friends pushed rapidly forward. 

The peril in which this little command was placed 
could not be overestimated. There were not twenty 
men all told and except two or three, were Mexicans 
who in no respect were the superiors if indeed they were 
\he equals of the Cheyennes. Had Carson been absent a 
score of warriors could have charged into camp and slain 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 219 

every one. Instead of a score there were several hundred 
of them : if they chose to make the attack he knew 
there was no escape. 

The horses, therefore, were lashed to do their utmost. 
The train pushed forward with all speed, while the appre- 
hensive leader continually glanced back over the prairie, 
almost certain of seeing the Cheyennes galloping toward 
them. When night came, there was little sleep in camp. 
Nearly every one stood on guard, but the night and the 
following day passed without molestation. 

Convinced beyond question that the attack would be 
made unless some extraordinary means was taken to avert 
it, Carson took one of the fleetest-footed Mexican boys 
outside the camp, and, pointing in the direction of the 
ranche of himself and Maxwell, nearly three hundred 
miles away, told him he must make all speed thither, and 
tell the soldiers that unless they hurried to his helh he 
and all pis companions were doomed to certain death at 
the hands of an overwhelming war party of Cheyennes. 
Everything depended on the quickness with which the 
Mexican youth brought assistance. The latter being 
promised a liberal reward, bounded away with the fleet- 
ness of a deer, and quickly vanished in the gloom. He 
went on foot because he could travel faster and last longer 
than could any animal in camp that he might ride. 

Carson went back to his friends and kept watch until 
morning. As soon as it came to light, the animals were 



220 LIFE OF KIT CARSOK 

hitched to the wagons and urged forward again to the 
fullest extent of their ability. 

Some hours later, several Cheyenne horsemen were 
seen riding rapidly toward them. When a hundred 
yards distant, Carson compelled them to halt. Then he 
allowed them to come closer and told them he had lost 
patience with their annoyances, and the night before 
had sent an express to Rayado (where his ranche was 
built), asking the troops to see that the persecution was 
stopped. Should it so happen that the soldiers came and 
found the party massacred, they would take the trail of 
the Cheyennes and punish them for what they had done. 

The cunning Indians, before accepting the statement of 
the leader, said they would examine the prairie for the 
trail of the messenger, Carson assisted them in the search, 
and it did not take long to find the moccasin tracks, 
A brief scrutiny also satisfied the warriors he had started 
so many hours before, that it was useless to try to over- 
take him. 

The result was the attack and massacre were not made, 
and, though the assistance which was asked was sent, yet 
it was not needed. One of the two experienced 
mountaineers with Carson on that eventful journey, 
declared afterward, that had any other living man than 
he been at the head of the party not one would have 
escaped. The achievement certainly ranks among the 
most extraordinary of the many performed by a most 
extraordinary man. 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 221 

It would be thought that after such an experience, 
Carson would be content to settle down and give his 
entire attention to his ranche. While it cannot be said 
that he neglected his duties as a farmer, yet he loved the 
mountains and prairies too well ever to abandon them 
altogether. 

He and Maxwell, his old friend, determined on having 
one more old-fashioned beaver hunt, such as they 
were accustomed to a score of years before. They did 
not mean it should be child's play and they admitted no 
amateur hunters and trappers : all were veterans of years' 
standing, and, when the party was fully made up, they 
numbered about a score. 

The expedition was a memorable one. They fixed 
upon one of the longest and most dangerous routes which 
included many Rocky Mountain streams and involved 
every possible kind of danger. 

In one respect, the party were pleasantly disappointed. 
Years before the beavers had been so effectively cleaned 
out that they expected to find very few if any ; but 
because the business had been so little followed for so 
long a time, the animals had increased very fast and 
therefore the trappers met with great success. 

They began operation on the South Fork of the 
Platte and finally ended on the Arkansas. They were 
gone many weeks and when they returned to their 
homes, nearly if not all felt that they had engaged on 
their last trapping expedition. 



222 LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

Carson had not wrought very long on his ranche, when 
he learned of the scarcity and high prices of sheep in 
California. He at once set about collecting several 
thousand, hired a number of men and drove the herd to 
Fort Laramie : thence he made his way by the old 
emigrant trail to California where he disposed of the sheep 
at prices which brought him a profit of several thousand 
dollars. 

While in San Francisco, he visited a prominent 
restaurant where he ordered a good substantial dinner for 
six persons. When it was ready he surveyed it for a 
moment with satisfaction, and, seating himself at the 
table, disposed of it all. His journey across the plains 
had given him a somewhat vigorous appetite. 



CHAPTER XXXIV. 

In San Francisco — The Return Homeward — The Mormon Dele^ 
gate Gives Carson Some Interesting Information — Carson's 
First Stirring Duties as Indian Agent — The Affection of the Red 
Men for Father Kit. 

Kit Carson's old friend, Maxwell, who had been his 
companion in so many stirring adventures,^ joined him in 
San Francisco, whose marvellous growth even at that 
remote day was a continual surprise and delight. As the 
two veteran mountaineers made their way through the 
streets, where but a few years before all was a wild, 
untrodden wilderness, they paused and indulged in many 
wondering exclamations as though they were a couple 
of countrymen visiting the metropolis for the first time in 
their lives. 

The couple concluded to make their way home by the 
southern route, passing in the neighborhood of the Gila ; 
but the distance could be shortened so much by taking 
the steamer to Los Angeles that Maxwell decided to 
adopt that course. When he asked Carson to join him 
the mountaineer shook his head. 

"I got enough of that in 1846," he said, alluding to 
his brief voyage, when serving under Fremont in Cali- 
fornia, at the beginning of the Mexican war ; *' I never 

was so sick in all my life." 

223 



224 LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

*' You aint likely to be sick again," plead Maxwell ; 
*' and, if you are, it don't last long. You'll save two or 
three weeks in time and enjoy yourself much more." 

But it was no use : Carson said he never would venture 
upon salt water again, and he would rather ride a thousand 
miles on the back of a mule than to sail a hundred in a 
ship. Accordingly, the party separated for the time and 
Maxwell took steamer to Los Angeles, where he arrived 
fully two weeks in advance of Carson, who rode into the 
quaint old town, on the back of a somewhat antiquated 
mule. 

They were soon ready for their long ride, when they 
struck a leisurely pace and all went well until they reached 
the Gila. There they entered a region which had been 
visited by one of those droughts which continue some- 
times for many months. The grass was so dry and 
parched that it contained scarcely any nourishment, and 
the friendly Pimos told them if they pushed on their ani- 
mals were sure to die of starvation. It was impossible 
to doubt these statements and Carson therefore proposed 
a new route, which though very rough and difficult in 
some places, would furnish all the forage that was 
required. 

The course led them along the Gila to the mouth of 
the San Pedro, and finally with little difficulty they 
reached the copper mines of New Mexico. Shortly after 
Carson encountered the Mormon delegate to Congress. 
During the exchange of courtesies, the gentleman con- 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 225 

veyed the interesting information that he — Carson — had 
been made Indian Agent for New Mexico. 

The news was a surprise and a great pleasure to the 
mountaineer. He had no thought of any such honor 
and with all his modesty could not but feel that he was 
eminently fitted for the performance of its duties. No 
one had travelled so extensively through the west, and no 
one could understand the nature of native Americans 
better than he. A hundred tribes knew of "• Father Kit," 
as he soon came to be called, and they referred to him as 
a man who never spoke with a " double tongue," and who 
was just toward them at all times. He had ventured 
among the hostiles, more than once where the bravest 
white man dared not follow him, and had spent days 
and nights in their lodges without being offered the 
slightest indignity. Kit Carson was brave, truthful, kind 
and honest. 

Aside from the gratification which one naturally feels, 
when receiving an appointment that is pleasant in every 
respect, and which he holds thoroughly *' in hand," as 
may be said, the honest mountaineer was especially 
delighted over the thought that his government conferred 
it without any solicitation on his part. 

But the man who accepts the position of Indian Agent 
and conscientiously attends to its duties has no sinecure 
on his hands. Many of them use it as such while others 
do still worse, thereby sowing the seeds which speedily 
develop into Indian outrages, massacres and wars. 
15 



226 LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

When Carson reached Taos, he had his official bond 
made out, and sent it with his thanks and acceptance of 
his appointment to the proper authorities in Wash- 
ington. 

The Indian Agent for New Mexico had scarcely 
entered upon his new duties, when trouble came. A 
branch of the Apaches became restless and committed a 
number of outrages on citizens. Stern measures only 
would answer and a force of dragoons were sent against 
them. They dealt them a severe blow, killing one of 
their most famous chiefs, besides a considerable number 
of warriors. 

Instead of quieting the tribe, it rather intensified their 
anger, though they remained quiescent for a time through 
fear. Not long after, Carson was notified that a large 
party of the tribe were encamped in the mountains, less 
than twenty miles from Taos. He decided at once to 
supplement the work of the sword with the gentle argu- 
ments of peace. 

This proceeding on the part of the Indian Agent is 
one deserving of special notice, for it shows no less the 
bravery of Carson than it does the philanthropic spirit 
which actuated him at all times in his dealings with the 
red men. Alas, that so few of our officials to-day deem 
his example ffa( worth their imitation. 

The venture was so dangerous that Carson went alone 
unwilling that any one else should run the risk. When 
he arrived at their encampment, he made his way with- 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 22/ 

out delay to the presence of the leaders, whom he saluted 
in the usual elaborate fashion, and then proceeded to 
state the important business that took him thither. 

Nearly every warrior in camp recognized the short, 
thick-set figure and the broad, pleasant face when they 
presented themselves. They knew he was one of the 
most terrible warriors that ever charged through a camp 
of red men. He had met them many a time in fierce war- 
fare, but he always fought warriors and not pappooses 
and squaws. He was the bravest of the brave and there- 
fore they respected him. 

But he was a truthful and just man. He had never 
lied to them, as most of the white men did, and he had 
shown his confidence in them by walking alone and unat- 
tended into the very heart of their encampment. They 
were eager to rend to shreds every pale face upon whom 
they could lay hands, but '' Father Kit " was safe within 
their lodges and wigwams. 

Carson made an admirable speech. He at first caused 
every serpent-like eye to sparkle, by his delicate flattery. 
Then he tried hard to convince them that their hostility to 
the whites could result only in injury to themselves, since 
the Great Father at Washington had hundreds and thou- 
sands of warriors whom he would send to replace such as 
might lose their lives. Then, when he made known that 
the same Great Father had appointed him to see that 
justice was done them, they grinned with delight and 



228 LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

gathering around, overwhelmed him with congratula 
tions. 

The Agent insisted that they should prove their sin« 
cerity by pledging to follow the Ime of conduct he had 
lain down, and they did so with such readiness that a 
superficial observer would have declared the mission a 
complete success. 

But Kit Carson thought otherwise. He knew the 
inherent treachery of the aboriginal nature, and his esti- 
mate of Apache loyalty was the true one. The most 
that he was warranted in feeling was the hope that those 
furious warriors would be less aggressive than had been 
their custom. Though they had expressed a willingness 
to make any agreement which he might propose, yet it 
was their very willingness to do so which caused his dis- 
trust. Had they been more argumentative and more 
tenacious of their rights, their sincerity might have been 
credited. 

The Agent could have secured their consent almost to 
any agreement, but the sagacious official asked as little 
as he could. 

" And I don't believe they mean to keep even that 
agreement, " he muttered, as he bade the effusive 
sachems and warriors good-bye and made his way back 
to Taos. 



CHAPTER XXXV. 

Trouble With the Apaches — Defeat of the Soldiers — Colonel Cook's 
Expedition Against Them— It Meets With Only Partial Success 
— Major Brooks' Attempt to Punish the Apaches~A Third 
Expedition. 

Just as Carson suspected, the Apaches were insincere 
in their professions of good will toward the settlers. He 
had scarcely reached home, when they renewed their out- 
rages. The sinewy horsemen, as daring as the Crusaders 
who invaded the Holy Land, seemed to be everywhere. 
We have already referred to those extraordinary warriors, 
who, for many years have caused our Government more 
trouble in the south-west than all the other tribes com- 
bined, and it is not necessary, therefore, to say that when 
any branch of the Apaches went on the war path the most 
frightful scenes were sure to follow. 

Carson knew when to be gentle and when to be stern. 
If the former measures failed, he did not hesitate to use 
the latter. Coercive means were taken, but, in the first 
encounter between the red men and the United States 
troops, the latter were decisively defeated. 

As a consequence, the Apaches became more trouble- 
some than ever. Colonel Cook of the Second Regiment 
of United States Dragoons, was sent against them. He 
selected Kit Carson for his guide. The Agent's wish, it 

229 



230 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

may be said, was to learn whether any other tribe was 
concerned in the outrages, and in no way could he do it 
as well as by accompanying the expedition, which was 
fully organized by the selection of a number of Pueblo 
Indians to act as scouts and spies. These were placed 
under the immediate command of the well known James 
H. Quinn, who died some time later. 

The force proceeded northward from Taos to the stream 
known as the Arroya Hondo. This was followed to the 
Rio del Norte, which being very high, was crossed with 
much difficulty. As an illustration of the rugged work 
which such expeditions were called upon to undergo, Dr. 
Peters says that when they struggled to the other shore, 
they found themselves confronted by a mass of solid and 
almost perpendicular rocks, fully six hundred feet high. 
This was ascended, after the most exhausting labor, by 
means of a zigzag trail, and the journey was pushed over 
a rough and diversified country. Grass and water could 
not be found until they reached a small Mexican town 
where they were enabled to buy what was so sadly needed. 
Men and animals were so worn out that they rested for 
an entire day. 

The next morning the line of march was taken up, and 
they had not gone far when Carson discovered a trail. 
This was followed with renewed vigor and a couple of days 
later the Indians were overtaken. They did not attempt 
any stand against such a strong force, but took to flight at 
once. The Apaches used their utmost endeavors to get 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 23 1 

away and they were helped by the roughness cf the 
country. They were pressed so hard, however, that they 
lost most of their horses and plunder besides a number of 
warriors. 

Two Americans were wounded one of whom shortly 
died; but the soldiers having ''located" the Indians, as 
may be said, did not give over their efforts to punish 
them. Pursuit was resumed at earliest daylight and men 
and animals did everything possible. Over mountains, 
through ravines, around rocks, up and down declivities, 
the chase continued, until the cunning Apaches resorted 
to their old tricks : they dissolved, as may be said, into 
their " original elements" — that is, they began separating 
until there were almost as many different trails as there 
were warriors. Then in their flight, they selected the 
worst possible ground. Being familiar with the country 
and, possessing far more endurance than the ordinary 
Indian, it soon became clear that the marauders were 
beyond reach. 

Accordingly Colonel Cook ordered the pursuit discon- 
tinued and they headed toward the nearest Mexican vil- 
lage, where forage and rest could be secured for the 
animals. When the place was reached. Colonel Cook 
learned of a serious mistake made by the party who were 
transporting the soldier wounded several days before. 
They discovered an Indian whom, after some difficulty, 
they captured. His horse and arms were taken from him 
under the supposition that he was one of the hostile 



23^ -^^^ ^''^ AVr CAJ^SOX, 

Apaches. He was not treated ver>' gently and watching 
his opportunity, he made his escape. It was aitenvanis 
learned that the warrior \\ as a Utah, with whom the white 
men were at peace. 

The Utahs were ot" a war-like nature and Colonel 
Cook was apprehensive they would use the occurrence as 
a pretext for joining the Apaches in their attack upon tlie 
settlers. He therefore sent Carson to the headquarters 
of his agency to do what he could to explain the matter 
and moke iill the reparation in his power. 

As soon as he arrived at Taos, Carson sent a messenger 
with a request that the Utah chiefs would come and have 
a talk w*ith him. They were alwa}*s glad to meet Father 
Kit. face to face. Tlie agent told how the mistake was 
made, expressed the regret of himself and Colonel Cook 
and ended by restoring the property and by distributing 
a few presents among the chiefs. The business was 
managed with such tact that the s^ichems expressed 
themselves perfectly satisfied and their affection and 
admiration for Father Kit became greater than before. 

Colonel Cook was unwilling to return without striking 
a more effective blow against the Apaches. Pausing 
only long enough, therefore, to rest and recruit his men 
and horses, he resumed the hunt. He had not gone far> 
when he struck another trail which was followed with 
great \-igor ; but before anything of the Indians could be 
discovered, it began snowing. In a few minutes, the 
flakes were eddpng all around them, the wind blowing 



IJl'l': OF KIT CARSON. 233 

so furiously that the men could hardly sec each other, as 
they bent their heads and rode slowly against it. This 
rendered pursuit out of the question, because the trail 
was entirely hidden. Much against his will Colonel Cook 
was forced to give up the pursuit. 

He made his way to a small town lying on his route, 
where he met Major Brooks, who was marching to his 
help with reinforcements. The latter officer instead of 
returning with Colonel Cook, decided to takq up the hunt 
himself for the hostiles. 

With little delay, a fresh trail was found and an 
energetic pursuit began. It was plain the Indians were 
making for the Utah country, and they were pursued 
without difficulty ; but, when that section was reached, 
the soldiers came upon so many trails, which crossed and 
re-crossed so many times that all individuality was lost. 
The most skilful scouts in the company were unable to 
identify or follow any one with certainty. 

The situation was exasperating, but there was no help 
for it and the command was compelled to turn about and 
make their way home, having been in the field more than 
two weeks without accomplishing anything at all. 

But it was known that tlie Apaches would speedly 
reorganize and the soldiers had but to wait a short while, 
when an opportuuity would be presented for striking an 
effective blow. When a sufficient period had elapsed, 
another expedition was sent out under the command of 



234 L^^^ OF KIT CARSON, 

Major Carleton, of the First Regiment of United States 
Dragoons. He engaged Kit Carson to act as his guide. 

The force marched northward about a hundred miles 
to Fort Massachusetts, where all the arrangements were 
completed. The party was divided, the spies under 
Captain Quinn being sent to examine the country on the 
west side of the White Mountains, while the Major 
decided to inspect the territory to the eastward of the 
range. 

Captain Quinn with his skilful trailers moved up the 
San Luis Valley until he reached the famous Mosco Pass, 
which was often used by the Apaches when hard pressed. 
They were perfectly familiar with all its diverse and 
peculiar windings, and, when they once dashed in 
among the rocks, they felt safe against any and all 
pursuers. 

Making their way through this pass, Captain Quinn 
and his scouts reached Wet Mountain Valley, where he 
had promised to meet and report to his superior officer. 



CHAPTER XXXVI. 
Discovery of the Trail — Prairie Detectives. 

Meanwhile, Kit Carson, who was with Major Carleton, 
had discovered a trail made by three of the enemy. Care- 
fully following it up, it was found to join the principal 
path, a short distance away. When Quinn arrived he 
had also some discoveries to report, and the scouts held a 
consultation over the question. It was agreed by all that 
they were on the track of the enemy they were seeking. 

The general reader is not apt to appreciate the skill, 
patience and intelligence shown by the scouts and 
hunters in tracing the flight of an enemy through a wild and 
desolate country. As an evidence of the wonderful attain- 
ments of border men in woodcraft, the following letter 
may be given, written by the surgeon at Fort Randall in 
Dacotah in 1869: 

" The most extraordinary skill that is exhibited in this 
part of the country, either by the white man, or red 
native, is in the practice of trailing. Here it may be 
accounted an art as much as music, painting or sculpture 
is in the East. The Indian or trapper that is a shrewd 
trailer, is a man of close observation, quick perception, 
and prompt action. As he goes along, nothing escapes 
his observation, and what he sees and hears he accounts 

235 



236 UFE OF KIT CARSON. 

for immediately. Often not another step is taken until a 
mystery, that may present itself in this line is fairly solved. 
The Indian trailer will stand still for hours in succession, 
to account for certain traces or effects in tracks, and 
sometimes gives to the matter unremitting attention for 
days and weeks. 

" The trailer is not a graceful man. He carries his head 
much inclined, his eye is quick and restless, always on 
the watch, and he is practising his art unconsciously, 
hardly ever crossing the track of man or animal without 
seeing it. When he enters a house, he brings the habits 
he contracted in the practice of his art with him. I know 
a trailer as soon he enters my room. He comes in 
through the door softly, and with an air of exceeding 
caution. Before he is fairly in, or at least has sat down, 
he has taken note of every article and person, though 
there may be a dozen vacant chairs in the room. He is 
not used to chairs, and, hke the Indian, prefers a more 
humble seat. When I was employed by General Harney 
last summer to take charge temporarily of the Indians 
that were gathered here to form a new reservation, one 
day a guide and trailer came into the General's head- 
quarters. I told him to be seated. He sat down on the 
floor, bracing his back against the wall. The General saw 
this, and in vexation cried out, " My God, why don't you 
take a chair when there are plenty here not occupied ? " 
The man arose and seated himself in a chair, but in so 
awkward and uncomfortable a manner that he looked as 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 237 

if he might slip from it at any moment. But when this 
uncouth person came to transact his business with the 
General, he turned out to be a man of no ordinary abiU- 
ties. His description of a route he took as guide and 
trailer for the Ogallalas in bringing them from the Platte 
to this place was minute, and to me exceedingly interest- 
ing. Every war party that for the season had crossed his 
trail, he described with minuteness as to their number, the 
kinds of arms they had, and stated the tribes they 
belonged to. In these strange revelations that he made 
there was neither imposition nor supposition, for he gave 
satisfactory reasons for every assertion he made. 

"I have rode several hundred miles with an experienced 
guide and trailer, Hack, whom I interrogated upon 
many points in the practice of this art. Nearly all tracks 
I saw, either old or new, as a novice in jthe art, I 
questioned him about. In going to the Niobrara River 
crossed the track of an Indian pony. My guide followed 
the track a few miles and then said, * It is a stray, black 
horse, with a long, bushy tail, nearly starved to death, 
has a split hoof of the left fore foot, and goes very lame, 
and he passed here early this morning.' Astonished and 
incredulous, I asked him the reasons for knowing these 
particulars by the tracks of the animal, when he n piled: 
* It was a stray horse, because it did not go in a irect 
line ; his tail was long, for he dragged it over the snow ; 
in brushing against a bush he left some of his hair which 
shows its color. He was very hungry, for, in going alon^ 



238 LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

he has nipped at those high, dry weeds, which horses 
seldom eat. The fissure of the left fore foot left also its 
track, and the depth of the indentation shows the degree 
of his lameness ; and his tracks show he was here this 
morning, when the snow was hard with frost.' 

"At another place we came across an Indian track, and 
he said, * It is an old Yankton, who came across the 
Missouri last evening to look at his traps. In coming 
over he carried in his right hand a trap, and in his left a 
lasso to catch a pony which he had lost. He returned 
without finding the horse, but had caught in the trap he 
had out a prairie wolf, which he carried home on his 
back and a bundle of kini-kinic wood in his right hand.' 
Then, he gave his reasons : ' I know he is old, by the 
impression his gait has made and a Yankton by that of 
his moccasin. He is from the other side of the river, as 
there are no Yanktons on this side. The trap he carried 
struck the snow now and then, and in same manner as 
when he came, shows that he did not find his pony. A 
drop of blood in the centre of his tracks shows that he 
carried the wolf on his back, and the bundle of kini-kinic 
wood he used for a staff for support, and catching a wolf, 
shows that he had traps out.' But I asked, *how do 
you know it is wolf; why not a fox, or a coyotte, or even 
a deer ? ' Said he : * If it had been a fox, or coyotte or 
any other small game he would have slipped the head of 
the animal in his waist-belt, and so carried it by his side, 
and not on his shoulders. Deer are not caught by traps 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 239 

but if it had been a deer, he would not have crossed this 
high hill, but would have gone back by way of the ravine, 
and the load would have made his steps still more tot- 
tering.' 

"Another Indian track which we saw twenty miles west 
of this he put this serious construction upon : ' He is an 
upper Indian— a prowling horse thief — carried a double- 
shot gun, and is a rascal that killed some white man lately^ 
and passed here one week ago ; for,' said he, ' a lone 
Indian in these parts is on mischief, and generally on the 
lookout for horses. He had on the shoes of a white man 
whom he had in all probability killed, but his steps are 
those of an Indian. Going through the ravine, the end 
of his gun hit into the deep snow. A week ago we had 
a very warm day, and the snow being soft, he made these 
deep tracks ; ever since it has been intensely cold 
weather, which makes very shallow tracks.' I suggested 
that perhaps he bought those shoes. ' Indians don't 
buy shoes, and if they did they would not buy them as 
large as these were, for Indians have very small feet.* 

"The most noted trailer of this country was Paul Dalo- 
ria, a half-breed, who died under my hands, of Indian con- 
sumption, last summer. I have spoken of him in a 
former letter. At one time I rode with him, and trailing 
was naturally the subject of our conversation. I begged 
to trail with him an old track over the prairie, in order 
to learn its history. I had hardly made the proposition, 
when he drew up his horse, which was at a ravine, and 



240 LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

said, * Well, here is an old elk track. Let us get off our 
horses and follow it. We followed it but a few rods, 
when he said, it was exactly a month old, and made at 
2 o'clock in the afternoon.' This he knew, as then we 
had our last rain, and at the hour named the ground was 
softer than at any other time. The track before us was 
then made. He broke up here and there clusters of 
grass that lay in the path of the track, and showed me 
the dry ends of some, the stumps of others, and by 
numerous other similar items accounted for many cir- 
cumstances that astonished me. We followed the trail 
over a mile. Now and then we saw that a wolf, a fox, 
and other animals had practised their trailing instincts on 
the elk's tracks. Here and there, he would show me 
where a snake, a rat, and a prairie dog had crossed the 
track. Nothing had followed or crossed the track that 
the quick eye of Daloria did not detect. He gave an 
account of the habits of all the animals that had left their 
footprints on the track, also of the state of the weather 
since the elk passed, and the effect of sunshine, winds, 
aridity, sand storms, and other influences that had a bear- 
ing on these tracks." 



CHAPTER XXXVII. 

The Pursuit and Attack— "Two O'clock." 

When Kit Carson and the other scouts found the main 
trail, they eagerly took up the pursuit. They had not 
gone far when all doubt was removed : they were upon the 
track of a large hostile body of warriors and were gaining 
steadily; but so rapid was the flight of the marauders 
that it was not until the sixth day that the first glimpse 
of the Indians was obtained. They were encamped on a 
mountain peak, devoid of trees, and seemingly beyond 
the reach of danger ; but such was the energy of the 
attack that they reached camp before the Indians could 
collect their animals and make off. The fight was a hot 
one for a few minutes during which quite a number of 
warriors were killed and wounded. 

When night came a squad of men hid themselves near 
the camp, from which the Indians had fled, in the expec- 
tation that some of them would steal back during the 
darkness to learn what had been done. The dismal hours 
passed until near midnight, when one of the soldiers made 
the call which the Apaches use to hail each other. The 
sound had hardly died out, when two squaws and two 
warriors appeared and began groping silently around in 
i6 241 



242 LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

the gloom. The soldiers were cruel enough to fire upon 
the party, but in the darkness only one was killed. 

Dr. Peters states that on the morning of the day when 
the Apache encampment was discovered Kit Carson, 
after diligently studying the trail, rode up to Major Carle- 
ton and told him that if no accident intervened, the 
Indians would be overtaken at two o'clock in the afternoon. 
The officer smiled and said if the Agent proved a genu- 
ine prophet, he would present him with the finest hat 
that could be bought in the United States. 

The pursuit continued for hours, and, when the watches 
in the company showed that it was two o'clock, Carson 
triumphantly pointed to the mountain peak, far in advance 
where the Indian encampment was in plain sight. He 
had hit the truth with mathematical exactness. 

Major Carleton kept his promise. To procure such a 
hat as he felt he had earned, required several months ; 
but one day the Indian Agent at Taos received a superb 
piece of head gear within which was the following inscrip- 
tion : 

AT 2 o'clock. 

KIT CARSON, 

FROM 

MAJOR CARLETON. 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 243 

Dr. Peters adds that a gentleman who was a member of 
the expedition subjected Carson some years later to a 
similar test, and he came within five minutes of naming 
the precise time when a band of fugitives was overtaken. 

Having done all that was possible, Major Carleton 
returned with his command to Taos and Carson resumed 
his duties as Indian Agent. Some months later, another 
expedition was organized against the Apaches but it 
accomplished nothing. In the latter part of the summer 
Carson started on a visit to the Utahs. They were under 
his especial charge and he held interviews with them sev- 
eral times a year, they generally visiting him at his 
ranche, which they were glad to do, as they were sure 
of being very hospitably treated. 

This journey required a horseback ride of two or three 
hundred miles, a great portion of which was through the 
Apache country. These Indians were in such a resentful 
mood towards the whites that they would have been only 
too glad to wrench the scalp of Father Kit from his 
crown ; but he knew better than to run into any of their 
traps. He was continually on the lookout, and more 
than once detected their wandering bands in time to give 
them the slip. He was equally vigilant and consequently 
equally fortunate on his return. 

Carson found when he met the Indians in council that 
they had good cause for discontent. One of their leading 
warriors had been waylaid and murdered by a small party 
of Mexicans. The officials who were with Carson prom- 



244 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

ised that the murderers should be given up. It was the 
intention of all that justice should be done, but, as was 
too often the case, it miscarried altogether. Only one of 
the murderers was caught and he managed to escape and 
was never apprehended again. 

To make matters worse, some of the blankets which the 
Superintendent had presented the Indians a short while 
before, proved to be infected with small pox and the 
dreadful disease carried off many of the leading warriors 
of the tribe. More than one Apache was resolute in 
declaring the proceeding premeditated on the part of the 
whites. The result was the breaking out of a most 
formidable Indian war. The Muache band of Utahs, 
under their most distinguished chieftain, joined the 
Apaches in waylaying and murdering travellers, attacking 
settlements and making off with the prisoners, besides 
capturing hundreds and thousands of cattle, sheep, 
mules and horses. For a time they overran a large portion 
of the territory of New Mexico. Matters at last reached 
such a pass, that unless the savages were checked, they 
would annihilate all the whites. 

The Governor issued a call for volunteers. The 
response was prompt, and five hundred men were 
speedily equipped and put into the field. They were 
placed under charge of Colowel T. T. Fauntleroy, of the 
First Regiment of United States Dragoons. He engaged 
Kit Carson as his chief guide. 

The campaign was pushed with all possible vigor, but 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 245 

for a time nothing important was done. The weather 
became intensely cold. On the second campaign, Colonel 
Fauntleroy surprised the main camp of the enemy and 
inflicted great slaughter. A severe blow was administered, 
but the reader knows that the peace which followed 
proved only temporary. The Apaches have been a thorn 
in our side for many years. General Crook has shown 
great tact, bravery and rare skill in his dealings with 
them and probably has brought about the most genuine 
peace that has been known for a generation. 

It would not be worth while to follow Kit Carson on 
his round of duties as Indian Agent. He had to deal with 
the most turbulent tribes on the continent, and enough has 
been told to prove his peerless sagacity in solving the 
most difficult questions brought before him. He rode 
thousands of miles, visiting remote points, conferred with 
the leading hostiles, risked his life times without number, 
and was often absent from home for weeks and months. 
While it was beyond the attainment of human endeavor 
for him to make an end of wars on the frontiers, yet he 
averted many and did a degree of good which is beyond 
all calculation. 

" I was in the insignificant settlement of Denver, in the 
autumn of i860," said A. L. Worthington, ''when a party 
of Arapahoes, Cheyennes and Comanches returned 
from an expedition against the tribe of mountain Indians 
know as the Utes. The allied forces were most beautifully 
whipped and were compelled to leave the mountains in 



246 LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 

the greatest hurry for their Hves. They brought into 
Denver one squaw and her half dozen children as 
prisoners. The little barbarians, when the other 
youngsters came too near or molested them, would fight 
like young wild cats. The intention of the captors, as I 
learned, was to torture the squaw and her children to 
death. Before the arrangements were completed. Kit 
Carson rode to the spot and dismounted. He had a brief, 
earnest talk with the warriors. He did not mean to 
permit the cruel death that was contemplated, but instead 
of demanding the surrender of the captives, he ransomed 
them all, paying ten dollars a piece After they were 
given up, he made sure that they were returned to their 
tribe in the mountains." 

This anecdote may serve as an illustration of scores of 
similar duties in which the agent was engaged. It was 
during the same year that Carson received an injury 
which was the cause of his death. He was descending a 
mountain, so steep that he led his horse by a lariat, 
intending, if the animal fell, to let go of it in time to pre- 
vent being injured. The steed did fall and though 
Carson threw the lariat from him, he was caught by it, 
dragged some distance and severely injured. 

When the late Civil War broke out and most of our troops 
were withdrawn from the mountains and plains, Carson 
applied to President Lincoln for permission to raise a 
regiment of volunteers in New Mexico, for the purpose 
£>f protecting our settlements there. Permission was 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 2\J 

given, the regiment raised and the famous mountaineer 
did good service with his soldiers. On one occasion he 
took 9,000 Navajo prisoners with less than 600 men. 

At the close of the war, he was ordered to Fort 
Garland; where he assumed command of a large region 
He was Brevet Brigadier-General and retained command 
of a battalion of New Mexico volunteers. 

Carson did not suffer immediately from his injury but 
he found in time that a grave internal disturbance had 
been caused by his fall. In the spring of 1868, he 
accompained a party of Ute Indians to Washington. He 
was then failing fast and consulted a number of leading 
physicians and surgeons. His disease was aneurism of 
the aorta which progressed fast. When his end was 
nigh, his wife suddenly died, leaving seven children, the 
youngest only a few weeks old. His affliction had a very 
depressing effect on Carson, who expired May 23, 1868. 



CHAPTER XXXVIII. 

Letter from General W. T. Sherman, and from General J, F, 

Rusling. 

In closing the life of Kit Carson, it will be appropriate 
to add two letters, which were furnished at our request : 

912 Garrison Avenue, 

St. Louis, Mo., June 25, 1884. 

" Kit Carson first came into public notice by Fremont's 

Reports of the Exploration of the Great West about 

1842-3. You will find mention of Kit Carson in my 

memoirs, vol. I, p. 46, 47, as bringing to us the first 

overland mail to California in his saddle-bags. I saw but 

little of him afterwards till after the Civil War, when, in 

1866, I was the Lieutenant-General, commanding the 

Military Division of the Missouri, with headquarters in St. 

Louis, and made a tour of my command, including what 

are now Wyoming, Colorado and New Mexico. Reach. 

ing Fort Garland, New Mexico, in September or October, 

1866, I found it garrisoned by some companies of New 

Mexico Volunteers, of which Carson was Colonel or 

commanding officer. I stayed with him some days, during 

which we had a sort of council with the Ute Indians, of 

which the chief Ouray was the principal feature, and ovei 

"^hom Carson exercised a powerful influence. 

248 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 249 

•" Carson then had his family with him — wife and half a 
dozen children, boys and girls as wild and untrained as a 
brood of Mexican mustangs. One day these children ran 
through the room in which we were seated, half clad and 
boisterous, and I inquired, ' Kit, what are you doing 
about your children? ' 

*' He replied : * That is a source of great anxiety ; I myself 
had no education,' (he could not even write, his wife 
always signing his name to his official reports), * I value 
education as much as any man, but I have never had the 
advantage of schools, and now that I am getting old and 
infirm, I fear I have not done right by my children." 

" I explained to him that the Catholic College, at South 
Bend, Indiana, had, for some reason, given me a scholar- 
ship for twenty years, and that I would divide with him — 
that is let him send two of his boys for five years each. 
He seemed very grateful and said he would think of it. 

" My recollection is that his regiment was mustered out 
of service that winter, 1866-7, ^^^ ^^^^ the following 
summer, 1867, he (Carson) went to Washington on some 
business for the Utes, and on his return toward New 
Mexico, he stopped at Fort Lyon, on the upper Arkansas, 
where he died. His wife died soon after at Taos, New 
Mexico, and the children fell to the care cf a brother-in- 
law, Mr. Boggs, who had a large ranche on the Purgation 
near Fort Lyon. It was reported of Carson, when notified 
that death was impending that he said, 'Send William, 
(his eldest son) to General Sherman who has promised to 



250 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

educate him.* Accordingly, some time about the spring 
of 1868, there came to my house, in St. Louis, a stout 
boy with a revolver, Life of Kit Carson by Dr. Peters, 
(United States Army, about $^0 in money, and a letter) 
from Boggs, saying that in compliance with the request 
of Kit Carson, on his death bed, he had sent William 
Carson to me. Allowing him a few days of vacation with 
my own children, I sent him to the college at South Bend, 
Ind., with a letter of explanation, and making myself 
responsible for his expenses. He was regularly entered 
in one of the classes, and reported to me regularly. I 
found the " Scholarship" amounted to what is known as 
" tuition," but for three years I paid all his expenses of 
board, clothing, books, &c., amounting to about ;^300 a 
year. At the end of that time, the Priest reported to me 
that Carson was a good-natured boy, willing enough, but 
that he had no taste or appetite for learning. His letters 
to me confirmed this conclusion, as he could not possibly 
spell. After reflection, I concluded to send him to Fort 
Leavenworth, Kansas, to the care of General Langdon 
C. Easton, United States Quartermaster, with instructions 
to employ him in some capacity in which he could earn 
his board and clothing, and to get some officer of the 
garrison to teach him just what was necessary for a 
Lieutenant of Cavalry. Lieutenant Beard, adjutant of 
the Fifth Infantry did this. He (William Carson) was 
employed, as a " Messenger," and, as he approached his 
twenty-first year, under the tuition of Lieutenant Beard, 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 25 1 

he made good progress. Meantime I was promoted to 
General-in-Chief at Washington, and about 1870, when 
Carson had become twenty-one years of age, I applied 
in person to the President, General Grant, to give the son 
of Kit Carson, the appointment of Second Lieutenant, 
Ninth United States Cavalry, telling him somewhat of the 
foregoing details. General Grant promptly ordered the 
appointment to issue, subject to the examination as to 
educational qualifications, required by the law. The 
usual board of officers was appointed at Fort Leaven- 
worth and Carson was ordered before it. After careful 
examination, the board found him deficient^ in readmg 
writing and arithmetic. Of course he could not be com- 
missioned. I had given him four years of my guardian- 
ship, about $\yQO0 of my own money, and the benefit of 
my influence, all in vain. By nature, he was not adapted 
to "modern uses." I accordingly wrote him that I had 
exhausted my ability to provide for him, and advised him 
to return to his uncle Boggs on the Purgation to assist 
him in his cattle and sheep ranche. 

" I heard from him by letter once or twice afterward, in 
one of which he asked me to procure for him the agency 
for the Utes. On inquiry at the proper office in Wash- 
ington, I found that another person had secured the place 
of which I notified him, and though of late years I have 
often been on the Purgation, and in the Ute country, I 
could learn nothing of the other children of Kit Carson, 



252 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

or of William, who for four years was a sort of ward to 
me. 

"Since the building of railroads in that region, the 
whole character of its population is changed, and were 
Kit Carson to arise from his grave, he could not find a 
buffalo, elk or deer, where he used to see millions. He 
could not even recognize the country with which he used 
to be so familiar, or find his own children, whom he 
loved, and for whose welfare, he felt so solicitious in his 
later days. 

*' Kit Carson was a good type of a class of men most 
useful in their day, but now as antiquated as Jason of the 
Golden Fleece, Ulysses of Troy, the Chevalier La Salle 
of the Lakes, Daniel Boone of Kentucky, Irvin Bridger 
and Jim Beckwith of the Rockies, all belonging to the 
dead past Yours Truly, 

W. T. Sherman." 

« Trenton, N. J., June 23, 1884. 

•' In accordance with your request to give my recol- 
lections of Kit Carson, I would say, that I met and spent 
several days with him in September, 1866, at and near 
Fort Garland, Colorado, on the head-waters of the Rio 
Grande. I was then Brevet Brigadier- General and 
Inspector United States Volunteers, on a tour of inspec- 
tion of the military depots and posts in that region and 
across to the Pacific. General Sherman happened there 
at the same time, on like duty as to his Military Divis- 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 253 

ion, and our joint talks, as a rule, extended far into the 
night and over many subjects. ' Kit ' was then Brevet 
Brigadier- General United States Volunteers, and in com- 
mand of Fort Garland, and a wide region thereabouts — 
mostly Indian — which he knew thoroughly. Fort Gar- 
land was a typical frontier post, composed of log huts 
chinked with mud, rough but comfortable, and in one of 
these Kit then lived with his Mexican wife and several 
half-breed children. 

He was then a man apparently about fifty years of age. 
From what I had read about him, I had expected to see 
a small, wiry man, weather-beaten and reticent ; but found 
him to be a medium-sized, rather stoutish, and quite talk- 
ative person instead. His hair was already well-silvered, 
but his face full and florid. You would scarcely regard 
him, at first sight, as a very noticeable man, except as hav- 
ing a well-knit frame and full, deep chest. But on observ- 
ing him more closely, you were struck with the breadth 
and openness of his brow, bespeaking more than ordinary 
intelligence and courage ; with his quick, blue eye, that 
caught everything at a glance apparently — an eye beam- 
ing with kindliness and benevolence, but that could blaze 
with anger when aroused ; and with his full, square jaw 
and chin, that evidently could shut as tight as Sherman's 
or Grant's when necessary. With nothing of the swash- 
buckler or Buffalo Bill — of the border ruffian or the cow- 
boy — about him, his manners were as gentle, and his voice 
as soft and sympathetic, as a woman's. What impressed 



254 X//^£• OF KIT CARSON. 

one most about his face was its rare kindliness and charity 
— that here, at last, was a natural gentleman, simple as a 
child but brave as a lion. He soon took our hearts by- 
storm, and the more we saw of him the more we became 
impressed with his true manliness and worth. Like every- 
body else on the border, he smoked freely, and at one 
time drank considerably ; but he had quit drinking years 
before, and said he owed his excellent health and pre- 
eminence, if he had any, to his habits of almost total absti- 
nence. In conversation he was slow and hesitating at first, 
approaching almost to bashfulness, often seemingly at a 
loss for words; but, as he warmed up, this disappeared, 
and you soon found him talking glibly, and with his 
hands and fingers as well — rapidly gesticulating — Indian 
fashion. He was very conscientious, and in all our talks 
would frequently say : * Now, stop gentlemen ! Is this 
right?' 'Ought we to do this?' 'Can we do that?' 
* Is this like human nature ? ' or words to this effect, as 
if it was the habit of his mind to test everything by the 
moral law. I think that was the predominating feature of 
his character — his perfect honesty and truthfulness — quite 
as much as his matchless coolness and courage. Said 
Sherman to me one day while there : * His integrity is 
simply perfect. The red skins know it, and would trust 
Kit any day before they would us, or the President, 
either ! ' And Kit well returned their confidence, by 
being their steadfast, unswerving friend and ready cham- 
pion. 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 255 

** He talked freely of his past life, unconscious of its ex 
tiaordinary character. Born in Kentucky, he said, he early 
took to the plains and mountains, and joined the hunters 
and trappers, when he was so young he could not set a 
trap. When he became older, he turned trapper himself, 
and trapped all over our territories for beaver, otter, etc., 
from the Missouri to the Pacific, and from British America 
to Mexico. Next he passed into Government employ, as 
an Indian scout and guide, and as such piloted Fremont 
and others all over the Plains and through the Rocky 
and Sierra Nevada Mountains. Fremont, in his reports 
surrounded Kit's name with a romantic valor, but he 
seems to have deserved it all, and more. His good sense, 
his large experience, and unfaltering courage, were 
invaluable to Fremont, and it is said about the only time 
the Pathfinder went seriously astray among the Mountains 
was when he disregarded his (Kit's) advice, and 
endeavored to force a passage through the Rockies north- 
west of Fort Garland. Kit told him the mountains could 
not be crossed at that time of the year; and, when 
Fremont nevertheless insisted on proceeding, he resigned 
as guide. The Pathfinder, however, went stubbornly for-^ 
ward, but got caught in terrible snow-storms, and pres. 
ently returned — half of his men and animals having per- 
ished outright from cold and hunger. Next Kit became 
United States Indian Agent, and made one of the best 
we ever had. Familiar with the language and customs of 
the Indians, he frequently spent months together among 



256 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

them without seeing a white man, and indeed became a 
sort of half-Indian himself. In talking with us, I noticed 
he frequently hesitated for the right English word ; but 
^\hen speaking bastard Spanish (Mexican) or Indian, with 
tlie Ute Indians there, he was as fluent as a native. Both 
T\Iexican and Indian, however, are largely pantomime, 
abounding in perpetual grimace and gesture, which may 
have helped him along somewhat. Next, when the 
rebellion broke out, he became a Union soldier, though 
tiie border was largely Confederate. He tendered his 
services to Mr. Lincoln, who at once commissoned him 
Colonel, and told him to take care of the frontier, as the 
regulars there had to come East to fight Jeff Davis. 
Kit straightway proceeded to raise the First Regiment of 
New Mexico Volunteers, in which he had little difficulty, 
as the New Mexican's knew him well, and had the 
utmost confidence in him. With these, during the war, 
he was busy fighting hostile Indians, and keeping others 
friendly, and in his famous campaign against the Navajos, 
in New Mexico, with only six hundred frontier volunteers 
captured some nine thousand prisoners. The Indians 
withdrew into a wild canyon, where no white man, it was 
said, had ever penetrated, and believed to be impregnable, 
Bat Kit pursued them from either end, and attacked them 
with pure Indian strategy and tactics ; and the Navajos 
finding themselves thus surrounded, and their supplies 
cut off, outwitted by a keener fighter than themselves, 
surrendered at discretion. Then he did not slaughter 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON, 257 

them, but marched them to a goodly reservation, and put 
them to work herding and planting, and they had con- 
tinued peaceable ever since. 

Kit seemed thoroughly familiar with Indian life and 
character, and it must be conceded, that no American of 
his time knew our aborigines better — if any so well. It 
must be set down to their credit, that he was their stout 
friend — no Boston philanthropist more so. He did not 
hesitate to say, that all our Indian troubles were caused 
originally by bad white men, if the truth were known, and 
was terribly severe on the brutalities and barbarities of 
the border. He said the Indians were very different 
from what they used to be, and were yearly becoming 
more so from contact with border-ruffians and cow-boys. 
He said he had lived for years among them with only 
occasional visits to the settlements, and he had never 
known an Indian to injure a Pale Face, where he did not 
deserve it ; on the other hand, he had seen an Indian kill 
his brother even for insulting a white man in the old 
times. He insisted that Indians never commit outrages 
unless they are first provoked to them b}^ the borderers,, 
and that many of the peculiar and special atrocities with 
which they are charged are only their imitation of the bad 
acts of wicked white men. He pleaded for the Indians, 
as " pore ignorant critters, who had no learnin', and did'nt 
know no better,'' whom we were daily robbing of 
their hunting grounds and homes, and solemnly asked : 
*'\Vhat der yer 'spose our Heavenly Father, who made 
17 



258 LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 

both them and us, thinks of these things?" He was 
particularly severe upon Col. Chivington and the Sand 
Creek massacre of 1864, which was still fresh in the pub- 
He mind, said he; "jist to think of that dog Chivington, 
and his dirty hounds, up thar at Sand Creek ! Whoever 
heerd of sich doings 'mong Christians!" 

" The pore Indians had the Stars and Stripes flying over 
them, our old flag thar, and they'd bin told down to 
Denver, that so long as they kept that flying they'd be 
safe enough. Well, then, one day along comes that 
durned Chivington and his cusses. They'd bin out several 
day's huntin Hostiles, and couldn't find none nowhar, and 
if they had, they'd have skedaddled from 'em, you bet ! 
So they jist lit upon these Friendlies, and massacreed 
'em — yes, sir, literally massacreed 'em — in cold blood, in 
spite of our flag thar — yes, women and little children, 
even ! Why, Senator Foster told me with his own lips 
(and him and his Committee come out yer from Wash- 
ington, you know, and investigated this muss), that that 
thar durned miscreant and his men shot down squaws, 
and blew the brains out of little innocent children — 
pistoled little papooses in the arms of their dead mothers, 
and even worse than this ! — them durned devils ! and you 
call sich soldiers Christians, do ye ? and pore Indians 
savages ! " 

" I tell you what, friends; I don't like a hostile Red Skin 
any more than you do. And when they are hostile, I've 
fit 'em — fout 'em — and expect to fight 'em — hard as any 



LIFE OF KIT CARSON. 259 

man. That's my business. But I never yit drew a bead 
on a squaw or papoose, and I despise the man who 
would. 'Taint nateral for men to kill women and pore 
little children, and none but a coward or a dog would do 
it. Of course when we white men do sich awful things, 
why these pore ignorant critters don't know no better 
than to foUer suit. Pore things ! Pore things ! I've 
seen as much of 'em as any man liv'in, and I can't help 
but pity 'em, right or wrong ! They once owned all this 
country yes, Plains and Mountains, buffalo and every, 
thing, but now they own next door to nuthin, and will 
soon be gone." 

Alas, poor Kit ! He has already * gone ' to the * Happy 
Hunting Grounds.' But the Indians had no truer friend, 
and Kit Carson would wish no prouder epitaph than this. 
In talking thus he would frequently get his grammar 
wrong, and his language was only the patois of the Bor- 
der ; but there was an eloquence in his eye, and a pathos 
in his voice, that would have touched a heart of stone, 
and a genuine manliness about him at all times, that 
would have won him hosts of friends anywhere. And 
so, Kit Carson, good friend, brave heart, generous soul, 
hail and farewell! 

Hoping these rough recollections may serve your pur- 
pose, I remain 

Very respectfully. 

Your obedient servant, 

James F. Rusling. 



26o LTFE OF KIT CARSON. 

The following tribute to the matchless scout, hunter 
and guide is from The Salt Lake Tribune : 

He wrote his own biography and left it where the edi- 
tion will never grow dim. The alphabet he used was 
made of the rivers, the plains, the forests, and the eternal 
heights. He started in his youth with his face to the 
West ; started toward where no trails had been blazed, 
where there was naught to meet him but the wilderness, 
the wild beast, and the still more savage man. He made 
his lonely camps by the rivers, and now it is a fiction with 
those who sleep on the same grounds that the waters in 
their flow murmur the great path-finder's name. He fol- 
lowed the water-courses to their sources, and guided by 
them, learned where the mountains bent their crests to 
make possible highways for the feet of men. He climbed 
the mountains and " disputed with the eagles of the 
crags" for points of observation; he met the wild beast 
and subdued him; he met the savage of the plains and 
of the hills, and, in his own person, gave him notice of 
his sovereignty in skill, in cunning and in courage. To 
the red man he was the voice of fate. In him they saw 
a materialized foreboding of their destiny. To them he 
was a voice crying tne coming of a race against w^hich 
they could not prevail; before which they were to be 
swept away. 




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Captain Bayley's Heir 

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At the period of the Boer War the hero manages a farm for his father in 
the heart of the Orange River Colony. While protecting British scouts 
from the attacks of the Boers he and a friend are overcome by two Boers, 
and compelled to leave home and take service with the British, where the 
hero is given command of a band of scouts. He becomes of signal service 
to his countrj^ by his brillant exploits. 

The story is one of remarkable interest. Cloth. i2mo. Price, $i.oo. 

SWEEPING THE SEAS, A Story of the Confederate Cruiser 
Alabama. By Dr, Gordon Stables, R. N. Illustrated by 
Archibald Webb. 

Dr. Stables derives his information from his friend, Dr. Llewellyn, sur- 
geon of the Alabama, and from the narrative of Captain Semmes. It is a 
thrilling and highly interesting story, worthy of the author's high repu- 
tation. Cloth. i2mo. Price, $i.oo. 

THE SECRET OF THE EVERGLADES. A Story of Ad- 
venture in Florida. By Bessie Marchant, author of " Held 
at Ransom." With Four Illustrations by A. A. Dixon. 

The supposed killing of the father of Millicent Osney, the heroine of this 
capital story for girls, rouses her from a state of dreamy idleness into an 
active participation in the struggle to maintain their hom'e. The conviction 
that her father is not dead, but is detained in the swamps of the Everglades 
by his treacherous partner, leads to several search expeditions, replete 
with thrilling returns, and in the end happiness again. Cloth. lamo. Price, 

$I.OO. 

A POPULAR GIRL. A Story of an American Girl's School 
Life in Germany. By May Baldwin. 

It is a healthy, happy story— there are tears and smiles, times of sadness 
and gladness. In short, it is a very full biography of girlish life, and one 
which will appeal to our girl readers. The authoress soon gets on good 
terms with her readers, and holds their attention strongly throughout the 
narrative. Cloth. i2mo. Price, $i.oo. 

THE GIRLS OF BANSHEE CASTLE. By Rosa Mulholland, 
author of " Giannetta," " Four Little Mischiefs," etc. With 
Six Full-page Illustrations by J. H. Bacon. 

A graceful and interesting story for girls, brightened by tales of Irish 
folk-lore and enlivened by the characteristic wit of the Irish. Cloth, ismo. 
Price. $i.oo. 

THE MERSHON COMPANY, RAHWAY, N. J. 



FLAG OF FREEDOM SERIES 

By CAPTAIN RALPH BONEHILL 

Volumes Illustrated, Bound in Cloth, with a very Attractive rnTllL 
Price 60 Cents per Volume 



WITH CUSTEE IN THE BLACK HILLS; or, A Young Scout among 
the Indians 

This is a complete story in itself, but forms the sixth and last volume of Captain 
Bonehill's popular " Flag of Freedom" Series. It tells of the remarkable experiences 
of a youth who, with his parent, goes to the Black Hills in search of gold. Custer's 
last battle is well described. A volume every lad fond of Indian stories should possess. 

BOYS OF THE FORT ; or, A Young Captain's Pluck 

Captain Bonehill is at his best when relating a tale of military adventure, and this 
story of stirring doings at one of our well-known forts in the Wild West is of more 
than ordinary interest. The young captain h.Td a difficult task to accomplish, but he 
had been drilled to do his duty, and he did it thoroughly. Gives a good insight into 
army life of to-day. 

THE YOUNG BANDMASTER ; or, Concert Stage and Battlefield 

In this tale Captain Bonehill touches upon a new field. The hero is a youth with a 
passion for music, who, compelled to make his own way in the world, becomes a cor- 
netist in an orchestra, and works his way up, first, to the position of a soloist, and theo 
to that of leader of a brass band. He is carried off to sea and falls in with a secret- 
service cutter bound for Cuba, and while in that island joins a military band which ac- 
companies our soldiers in the never-to-be-forgotten attack on Santiago, A mystery 
connected with the hero's inheritance adds to the interest of the tale. 

OFF FCR HAWAII ; or, The Mystery of a Great Volcano 

Here we have fact and romance cleverly interwoven. Several boys start on a tour 
of the Hawaiian Islands. They have heard that there is a treasure located in the 
vicinity of Kilauca, the largest active volcano in the world, and go in search of it. 
Their numerous adventures will be followed with much interest, 

A SAILOR BOY WITH DEWEY; or, Afloat in the Philippines 

The story of Dewey's victory in Manila Bay will never grow old, but here we have 
it told in a new form — not as those in command witnessed the contest, but as it ap- 
peared to a real, live American youth who was in the navy at the time. Many ad- 
ventures in Manila and in the interior follow, giving true-to-life scenes from tht> 
remote portion of the globe. A book that should be in every boy's library. 

WHEN SANTIAGO FELL ; or, The War Adventures of Two Chums 

Captain Bonehill has never penned a better tale than this stirring story of adventures 
in Cuba._ Two boys, an American and his Cuban chum, leave New York to join thei< 
parents in the interior of Cuba. The war between Spain and the Cubans is on, and 
the boys are detained at Santiago de Cuba, but escape by crossing the bay at night. 
Many adventures between the lines follow, and a good pen-picture of General Garcia 
is given. The American lad, with others, is captured and cast into a dungeon io 
Santiago ; a«d then follows the never-to-be-forgotten campaign in Cuba under General 
Shaftcr. How the hero finally escapes makes reading no wide-awake boy will want to 



Press Opinions of Captain Bonehill's Books for Boys 

"Captain Bonehill's stories will always be popular with our boys, for the reuon that 
they are thoroughly up-to-date and true to life. As a writer of outdoor tales he has no 
tival.—Brig^At Days, 

<>> THE MERSHON COMPANY 

V^ Fifib Ave., New York Rahway, N. J. 




MRS. L T. MEADE'S 

FAMOUS BOOKS 
FOR CIRLS 



12mo, Cloth 



Price 60 cents 



There are few more favorite authors 
with American girls than Mrs. L. T. 
Meade, whose copyright works can only 
be had from us. Essentially a writer 
for the home, with the loftiest aims and 
purest sentiments, Mrs. Meade's books 
possess the merit of utility as well as 

the means of amusement. They are girls' books— written for 

girls, and fitted for every home. 

Here will be found no maudlin nonsense as to the affections. 

There are no counts in disguise nor castles in Spain, It is pure 

and wholesome literature of a high order with a lofty ideal. 
The volumes are all copyright, excellently printed with clear. 

open type, uniformly bound in best cloth, with ink and gold 

stamp. 

THE FOLLOWING ARE THE TITLES 



The Children of Wilten Chase 
Bashful Fifteen 

Betty: A Schoolgirl 
Four on an Island 
Girls New and Old 
Out of the Fashion 
The Palace Beautiful 

Polly, a New-Fashioned Girl 
Eed Rose and Tiger Lily 
Temptation of Olive Latimer 
A Eing of Bubies 

A Sweet Girl Graduate 
Bunch of Cherries 

The Time 



A World of Girls 
Good Luck 

A Girl in Ten Thousand 
A Toung Mutineer 
Wild Kitty 

The Children's Pilgrimage 
The Girls of St. Wode's 
Light o' the Morning 
Bad Little Hannah 
Rebellion of Lil Carrington 

A Little Mother to the Others 
Merry Girls of England 
Daddy's Girl 
of Roses 



<3) THE MER8HON COMPANY 

156 Fifth Ave., New York Rahway, N. J 




MRS. L T. MEADE'S 

FAMOUS BOOKS 
FOR GIRLS 



12mo, Cloth 



Price 60 cent! 



There are few more favorite authors 
with American girls than Mrs. L. T. 
Meade, whose copyright works can only 
be had from us. Essentially a writer 
for the home, with the loftiest aims and 
purest sentiments, Mrs. Meade's books 
possess the merit of utility as well as 

the means of amusement. They are girls' books — written for 

girls, and fitted for every home. 

Here will be found no maudlin nonsense as to the affections. 

There are no counts in disguise nor castles in Spain. It is pure 

and wholesome literature of a high order with a lofty ideal. 
The volumes are all copyright, excellently printed with clear, 

open type, uniformly bound in best cloth, with ink and gold 

stamp. 

THE FOLLOWING ARE THE TITLES 



The Children of Wilton Chase 
Bashful Fifteen 

Betty: A Schoolgirl 
Tour on an Island 
Girls New and Old 
Ont of the Fashion 
The Palace Beautiful 

Polly, a New-Fashioned Girl 
Red Bose and Tiger Lily 
Temptation of Olive Latimer 
A Bing of Babies 

A Sweet Girl Graduate 
Bunch of Cherries 

The Time 



A World of Girls 
Good Luck 

A Girl in Ten Thousand 
A Toung Mutineer 
Wild Kitty 

The Children's Filgrimagt 
The Girls of St. Wode's 
Light o' the Morning 
Bad Little Hannah 
Bebellion of Lil Carrington 
A Little Mother to the Others 
Merry Girls of England 
Daddy's Girl 
of Boses 



<3) THE MERSHON 

156 Fifth Ave., New York 



COMPANY 

Rahway, N. J 



THE ROVER BOYS SERIES 

For Young Americans 
By ARTHUR M. WINFIELD 

Each Volume Handsomely Illustrated and Bound in Cloth 

Price 60 Cents per Volume 



THE BOVEB BOTS ON LAND AND SEA; or, The Cnxsoes of Sevea 
Islands 

This IS the seventh and latest volume of this enormously popular series. It is a 
Crusoe-like story, telling of adventures in the Southern Pacific Ocean. Life on a 
lonely island is well described, as well as encounters with wild animals and with 
mutineers. The presence of several girls in the tale helps to increase the interest. 

THE ROVEE BOYS ON THE GREAT LAKES ; or, The Secret of the Island 

Cave 

The action of this story takes place on Lake Erie and Lake Huron. A lonely island 
is visited, and the secret of the cave is such as is calculated to hold the majority of 
youthful readers spellbound. 

THE ROVER BOYS IN THE" MOUNTAINS ; or, A Hunt for Fun and 
Fortune 

In this sixth volume of the Rover Boys series the sc%ne is shifted to the Adirondack 
Mountains. The time is winter, and Dick, Tom, and Sam have a series of adventures 
calculated to warm the heart of any youth who loves an outing and a mystery. 

THE ROVER BOYS OTTT WEST ; or, The Search for a Missing Mine 

In this tale the Rover boys are first taken back to dear old Putnam Hall school, 
and then transported to the mountainous districts of Colorado. A valuable mining 
property cannot be located, and the missing mine is claimed by both the Rovers and 
their enemies. Many adventures are encountered, including one with a landslide 
which is realistic in the extreme ; and the tale is one which is bound to please both 
boys and girls. 

THE ROVER BOYS IN THE JUNGLE ; or. Stirring Adventures in Africa 

The father of the Rover boys had gone to Africa and had not been heard of for a 
long time. At last, unable to stand the suspense, the boys, accompanied by some 
older heads, start on a search for the missing parent. The hunt leads them into the 
very heart of the Dark Continent, where they become lost and fall in with many 
strange and savage natives. How all escape makes reading that nobody would care to 
miss. 

THE ROVER BOYS ON THE OCEAN ; or, A Chase for a Fortune 

This is a complete story in itself, but forms the second volume of the series. Dur- 
ing a vacation at the school a fortune is stolen and carried off to sea, and Sam, Tom, 
and Dick lose no time in following up the missing treasure. On the ocean they fall in 
with numerous adventures, as thrilling as they are absorbing. 

THE ROVER BOYS AT SCHOOL ; or. The Cadets of Putnam Hall 

Arthur M. Winfield has written many tales for boys, but he has penned nothing 
better than this story of life and adventure at an American military school, introducing 
as he does all sorts and conditions of boys, as well as several girls, and a plot that is 
bound to hold the reader's attention from start to finish. Anybody who loves an out- 
aad-out boy's book should read this volume. 

Other volumes of this series in preparation. 



^ THE MERSHON COMPANY 

166 Fifth Ave.. New York Rah way, N.J. 



IUL5 190A 



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SEP 




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